Is the ICC’s Super Eight format the most confusing qualification system in world sport? The reshuffled structure of the UEFA Champions League might offer competition in that regard, but the T20 World Cup’s second phase is certainly in the conversation.

After just two completed matches in a below-par Group 2, the first semi-finalists were already confirmed — a remarkable scenario that left even England wondering how they had navigated their repeated brushes with disaster to remain on course.

Group 1, however, tells a very different story. In Ahmedabad, tension is building as the tournament’s only two unbeaten sides, West Indies and South Africa, prepare for a blockbuster encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Yet even the winner of this heavyweight clash will not be assured of a semi-final berth once the dust settles.

For West Indies, this contest carries the weight of a virtual knockout. Their commanding 107-run demolition of Zimbabwe on Monday significantly boosted their net run rate, but a final Super Eight meeting with a stung India looms large on Sunday. Should qualification hinge on that fixture, the Caribbean side would much rather secure breathing space now than risk a winner-takes-all scenario later.

Encouragingly for them, confidence and momentum are firmly in their favour. West Indies have embraced an unapologetically aggressive brand of cricket throughout the tournament. Shimron Hetmyer’s breathtaking 85 off just 34 deliveries against Zimbabwe epitomised their fearless approach — an extension of the power-hitting display that saw them overwhelm England with a barrage of sixes in Kolkata earlier in the competition.

South Africa have matched that boldness with authority. Against India at the same venue, they appeared in deep trouble when Jasprit Bumrah ripped through their top order, reducing them to 20 for 3 inside four overs. But a counterattacking middle order — led by Dewald Brevis, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs — transformed the innings, propelling the Proteas to 187 for 7. Marco Jansen then ensured the total was more than sufficient. A victory on Thursday would all but confirm South Africa’s semi-final spot, barring an unlikely collapse from India across their remaining fixtures.

Expect more fearless cricket when these sides collide. While such a high-stakes showdown adds excitement to the Super Eight stage, it also underlines the imbalance of the group. Three of the tournament’s strongest contenders find themselves squeezed into the same pool, turning every game into a survival test. At the Narendra Modi Stadium, it is a case of strike first — or risk elimination.

Team News: Power at the Core

West Indies have little reason to alter a winning combination. However, Roston Chase’s off-spin could come into consideration, particularly against South Africa’s cluster of left-handers. His inclusion would also deepen the batting resources.

West Indies (probable): Brandon King, Shai Hope (capt & wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein / Roston Chase, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph.

South Africa fielded their strongest XI against India and are unlikely to experiment in such a pivotal encounter.

South Africa (probable): Aiden Markram (capt), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.