DUBAI (AP) — Pakistan’s victory over Namibia on Sunday locked in the Super 8 lineup for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, prompting organizers to release the complete schedule of matches, dates, venues and timings.

The 20-team tournament now sees its final eight contenders divided into Group 1 and Group 2, each with four teams. All squads enter this stage with zero points. Group-stage results, including net run rates, carry no weight forward, officials said.

Top finishers from both groups earn spots in the semifinals scheduled for March 4 and 5. Reaching the Super 8 round alone guarantees each of the eight nations direct qualification for the 2028 T20 World Cup, set for Australia and New Zealand.

Group 1 features intense clashes starting with a marquee matchup between India and England on Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. local time in Colombo. South Africa faces New Zealand the same day at 2 p.m. in Lahore. Subsequent games pit India against South Africa on Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. in Colombo, followed by England versus New Zealand at 2 p.m. in Lahore.

Group 1 wraps up on March 1. England plays South Africa at 7:30 p.m. in Colombo, while India meets New Zealand at 2 p.m. in Lahore. Venues alternate between Sri Lanka’s Colombo and Pakistan’s Lahore, blending neutral and host-ground atmospheres.

Group 2 kicks off Feb. 26. Australia battles West Indies at 7:30 p.m. in Dubai, with Pakistan taking on Afghanistan at 2 p.m. in Karachi. Action continues Feb. 28 as Australia faces Afghanistan at 7:30 p.m. in Dubai and Pakistan meets West Indies at 2 p.m. in Karachi.

The group closes March 2. West Indies versus Afghanistan starts at 7:30 p.m. in Dubai, Pakistan collides with Australia at 2 p.m. in Karachi. UAE’s Dubai joins as a key venue, expanding the tournament’s footprint across South Asia and the Gulf.

ICC officials emphasized the fresh-start format rewards Super 8 performers outright. ‘Every match counts from zero,’ a spokesperson stated. Semifinals lead to the March 8 final, though exact venues remain pending confirmation.

Pakistan’s win over Namibia in their final group fixture clinched the eighth and final Super 8 berth. Earlier qualifiers included hosts Sri Lanka and India from Group A, plus Australia, England and others through group play. Full group standings determined the draws.

Fans can expect high-stakes cricket under lights, with day-night doubleheaders maximizing attendance. Broadcast details and ticket sales follow soon, according to tournament organizers.

The schedule balances travel demands, pitting regional rivals early while saving potential semifinals fireworks. All eyes now turn to Group 1 and 2 openers later this week.