T20 WC 2026: Pakistan's Amir Predicts India "Not Favourites" Despite Semifinal Berth

Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has made a fresh prediction about India’s campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026 after his earlier forecast that the team would fail to reach the semifinals proved incorrect. Amir had stated that India would not qualify for the last four following their defeat to South Africa, but consecutive wins against Zimbabwe and West Indies ensured that the Suryakumar Yadav-led side secured a semifinal berth, prompting widespread reactions on social media.

Speaking on a Pakistani television show, Amir said that despite India’s qualification, he does not consider them favourites to win the tournament. He criticised the team’s fielding standards, claiming multiple dropped catches and lapses in the field have hurt their overall performance. Amir also pointed out that, apart from Jasprit Bumrah, the Indian bowling unit has conceded runs at crucial stages, questioning the team’s balance ahead of the knockout matches.

Amir was particularly critical of certain senior players, suggesting that Hardik Pandya has struggled to deliver consistently against stronger opposition. He also noted that Varun Chakravarthy was targeted by West Indies batters and argued that teams in the semifinals are generally better equipped to handle spin bowling. According to Amir, these factors indicate that India still have areas of concern despite progressing to the final four of the competition.

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India are scheduled to face England in the semifinal at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, a high-stakes clash that could determine whether they advance to the final. The team’s resurgence after an early setback has been built on improved batting performances and key contributions from senior players, though questions over consistency remain part of the broader debate surrounding their title credentials.

Amir also highlighted what he described as a controversial moment during India’s match against West Indies, involving the dismissal of Shimron Hetmyer. During Jasprit Bumrah’s over, Hetmyer attempted a big shot but was caught behind by Sanju Samson, with umpire Chris Gaffaney raising his finger. Hetmyer opted for a review, and replays suggested a faint contact with the bat, though Amir maintained that he believed the batter was not out.

According to Amir, had Hetmyer continued at the crease and pushed the West Indies total beyond 220 or 230 runs, the outcome of the match could have been different. His comments have added further intrigue ahead of India’s semifinal encounter, as debates over form, momentum and contentious decisions continue to shape discussions around one of cricket’s most closely followed tournaments.

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