Cricket
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 format has sparked massive debate. Fans and experts are asking: Is this format fair?
Unlike usual tournaments, the ICC fixed Super 8 groups before the tournament began. No matter who finished 1st or 2nd, teams were locked into pre-decided slots. This system is called pre-seeding
India, South Africa, West Indies, and Zimbabwe, all four teams topped their respective groups in dominant fashion. But now, they face each other in a high-stakes Super 8 battle, where only two can secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Group 2 features second-placed teams - Pakistan, England, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka and with critics claiming the semifinal path looks easier on paper, questions are now being raised, is finishing second actually being rewarded?
Usually, topping a group means an easier draw. But this time, finishing first gives no advantage. Experts say it reduces the importance of group-stage matches
The ICC maintains that pre-seeding was essential for travel, security, and broadcast logistics with India and Sri Lanka hosting, but the debate rages on: was it smart planning or a flawed format?