The iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium is set to light up on February 26 as India lock horns with Zimbabwe in their second Super 8 fixture, with the action scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST.

Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the Men in Blue head into this clash seeking a strong response after a 76-run defeat to South Africa national cricket team. The loss not only dented India’s Super 8 momentum but also brought an end to their remarkable 17-game winning streak in ICC men’s limited-overs tournaments.

At the Narendra Modi Stadium, South Africa capitalised on a batting-friendly surface despite early setbacks. Contributions from Dewald Brevis and David Miller revived their innings before Tristan Stubbs powered them to a competitive 187/7.

India’s bowlers had their moments where Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah struck crucial blows. But the chase never gained traction. Early dismissals derailed the innings and despite Shivam Dube’s fighting 42, India were bowled out for 111 in 18.5 overs.

Zimbabwe on the other hand, are also coming off a heavy defeat against the West Indies cricket team. However, the Chevrons have proven they are no pushovers.

The Sikandar Raza-led side has already stunned heavyweights like Australia and Sri Lanka in recent contests, showcasing their ability to punch above their weight. Another upset on Indian soil would certainly be on their radar.

The Chepauk surface is traditionally known to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. With assistance available for both pacers and spinners.

For India, this fixture carries significant weight. A victory would strengthen their push for a semi-final berth, while another slip-up could complicate their path. Expect a fired-up Indian unit eager to bounce back and a fearless Zimbabwe side ready to seize its moment.

All set for a high-stakes showdown under the Chennai lights.

Players to watch out for

Suryakumar Yadav: India’s T20 captain has amassed 180 runs in five outings, including a blistering unbeaten 84. Known for rising to the occasion, the right-hander thrives under pressure and will be keen to light up Chepauk with another impactful knock.

Arshdeep Singh: The left-arm pacer has claimed five wickets in four matches in the T20 Cup 2026. Known for his knack of striking early, especially in the powerplay, Arshdeep’s ability to dismantle top orders could pose a serious threat to Zimbabwe’s batting unit. 

India vs Zimbabwe T20 head-to-head

India and Zimbabwe have met 13 times in T20Is, with India dominating the rivalry by winning 10 matches, while Zimbabwe have secured victory on three occasions.

India vs Zimbabwe squads for T20 Cup 2026

India: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Rinku Singh, Mohammed Siraj

Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza (captain), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Graeme Cremer, Ben Curran, Brad Evans, Clive Madande (wicket-keeper), Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava 

Upcoming milestones to keep an eye on

Ishan Kishan is 1 maximum away from 300 sixes in T20s.

Suryakumar Yadav is 16 runs away from completing 100 runs in T20 Cup 2026.

Jasprit Bumrah is five T20I scalps away to notch up 10 wickets against Zimbabwe.

Kuldeep Yadav needs 5 wickets for 100 wickets in T20Is.

Where to watch India vs Zimbabwe T20 Cup 2026 live

The India vs Zimbabwe, T20 Cup 2026 match will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network’s TV channels.

Live streaming of the IND vs ZIM game will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.