Former India's batting coach Sanjay Bangar have identified South Africa as the clear frontrunners heading into the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026. He believes that the Proteas hold psychological and tactical advantage over India as the two sides prepare for their highly anticipated opening Super 8 clash on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Sanjay Bangar reveals South Africa's key advantage in Super 8 clash against India
Bangar feels that South Africa’s familiarity with the tournament conditions has put them in an enviable position. He highlighted that the team has spent a considerable amount of time playing at the Ahmedabad venue during the group stages, giving them a level of comfort that could prove decisive.
The scheduling further benefits the Proteas, as they played three of their group-stage matches in Ahmedabad and are slated to play two of their three Super 8 fixtures at the same stadium. Bangar noted that by remaining in one city, South Africa avoids the exhaustion of frequent travel, allowing for better recovery and preparation time, factors that often determine the outcome of high-stakes World Cup matches.
"It is indeed a big advantage. Also, [they are] not travelling. If they're settled at one particular place, then it gives more time for rest and rehab purposes as well. So, South Africa having that long experience, it's like they're playing in a familiar territory now, just like what Sri Lanka is doing, playing in their own backyard, just like what India is doing,” Sanjay Bangar was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.
South Africa's dominance in T20 World Cup 2026
South Africa’s performance in the group stage was nothing short of dominant, as they secured four consecutive victories to finish at the top of their table. Their campaign in Ahmedabad was particularly impressive, featuring a high-scoring win over Canada, a dramatic double-super-over escape against Afghanistan, and a convincing defeat of New Zealand. Their consistency extended beyond Ahmedabad as well, with a clinical victory over the UAE at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium to maintain their unbeaten streak.
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Beyond their current form, Bangar also mentioned that the Proteas possess a strategic edge through their extensive experience in the subcontinent. Many members of the squad are seasoned veterans of the Indian Premier League (IPL), making them intimately familiar with the local pitches and weather conditions.
“The number of players that play in subcontinent conditions, I think they've got very good exposure of what to do at that particular venue. So clearly an advantage to South Africa,” he further added.
Both India and South Africa are invincible so far in the ongoing tournament. However, one of them will have to taste the first defeat in their next fixture.