As the cricketing world shifts its focus to the subcontinent, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is already generating immense buzz. Co-hosted by heavyweights India and Sri Lanka, this tenth edition of the tournament is set to be the largest in history, featuring 20 teams battling across iconic venues like Mumbai, Colombo, and Ahmedabad. With the home advantage playing a massive role and the shortest format of the game becoming increasingly unpredictable, fans and experts alike are scrambling to identify the teams that will survive the gruelling group stages.

Amidst this rising fever, Australian pace legend Glenn McGrath has weighed in with his expert analysis. Known for his pinpoint accuracy on the field, McGrath’s off-field predictions are equally sharp, and his latest forecast for the 2026 semi-finalists has sent ripples through the cricketing community.

Glenn McGrath predicts semi-final line-up for T20 World Cup 2026

Predicting the knockout stages of a T20 World Cup is never easy, but =McGrath has narrowed down the field to four primary contenders. According to the “Pidge,” the semi-final lineup will likely be dominated by the usual powerhouses, though he admits the fourth spot is a toss-up between two clinical sides.

“Number 1 would be India, 2nd would be South Africa, 3rd England, and as a fourth semi-finalist I really want to say Australia but it would be hard so maybe Pakistan or New Zealand,” McGrath stated during his podcast Fast Bowling Cartel.

McGrath’s selection of India and South Africa comes as no surprise. India, playing in familiar home conditions with a deep roster of spin-bowling all-rounders and IPL-hardened finishers, remains the team to beat. Meanwhile, South Africa has shed its chokers tag in recent years, consistently reaching the business end of ICC events with a pace attack that can exploit any surface. England, the pioneers of the modern aggressive T20 style, secured the third spot in his list. However, in a rare moment of doubt regarding his own nation, McGrath noted that Australia might face a steep climb in Asian conditions, leaving the final door open for Pakistan’s mercurial brilliance or New Zealand’s tactical consistency.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Ishan Kishan picks 2 bowlers he finds most difficult to face

Who will lift the trophy? Mcgrath’s verdict on potential winners

While naming the semi-finalists is one thing, picking the eventual champion requires a deeper look at team balance and momentum. McGrath was quick to identify the two teams he believes are a cut above the rest when it comes to the high-pressure environment of a World Cup Final.

Unsurprisingly, the legendary pacer believes the title is India’s to lose. The combination of local support and a squad that has mastered the art of subcontinent T20 makes them the overwhelming favorites. However, if the Men in Blue stumble, McGrath sees a specific dark horse ready to seize the crown.

“India would be hard to beat,If not India, then I would probably go for South Africa,” McGrath explained.

This endorsement of South Africa highlights the Proteas’ evolution into a clinical tournament side. With the 2026 T20 World Cup scheduled to conclude in India, the ability to adapt to turning tracks and heavy dew will be the deciding factor. Whether McGrath’s predictions hold true or a wildcard entry disrupts the order, the 2026 edition promises to be a landmark event in cricket history.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Parthiv Patel reveals his ideal India playing XI, excludes Harshit Rana

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.