The Super 8 schedule has introduced an unexpected twist to the tournament. Group 1 consists of the top teams from the first phase, while Group 2 includes those that placed second. This arrangement means that two strong teams may not reach the semi-finals, while a lower-ranked team has a better chance. The groupings were determined based on ICC rankings prior to the tournament, with Zimbabwe taking the vacant seeded spot after Australia was eliminated.
The situation has become more complicated as the tournament takes place in both India and Sri Lanka. The logistical issues are heightened by Pakistan’s choice to play all their matches in Sri Lanka.
Aakash Chopra dismissed concerns on social media, stating that the scheduling does not favor India.
“This event is hosted across two countries. India plays all its matches in India, while Sri Lanka and Pakistan will play their games in Sri Lanka. This setup required Sri Lanka and Pakistan to be in the same group, with India placed separately. Otherwise, how would it work?” Aakash Chopra explained in a video.
