West Indies vs Zimbabwe Prediction: Who Will Win WI vs ZIM 44th Match, Super 8 T20 Match on 23rd February 2026?
The much-anticipated West Indies vs Zimbabwe prediction for the 44th Match, Super 8 T20 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 promises an exciting contest at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. Both teams have entered the Super 8 stage undefeated, showcasing their dominance in the group phase. West Indies won all four matches in Group C, while Zimbabwe stunned cricket fans with three commanding wins in Group B, including victories over top-tier nations. Cricketwebs brings you detailed dream11 prediction tips, match insights, probable playing XIs, pitch report, and winning chances analysis.
West Indies appear stronger on paper with their explosive batting lineup and experienced spin attack. Shai Hope has been sensational with an average of 51.66, while the spin trio of Akeal Hosein, Roston Chase, and Gudakesh Motie have combined for 12 wickets so far. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, have been powered by Brian Bennett’s unbeaten streak and Blessing Muzarabani’s lethal pace bowling.
The toss has played a crucial role at Wankhede in this tournament, with captains opting to field first in five out of six games. Dew and chasing advantage could again influence strategy.
With both teams riding high on confidence, this Super 8 clash could shape the semifinal race significantly. Let’s dive deep into team previews, fantasy tips, stats, and final prediction.
- Form Battle: Both teams are undefeated so far. West Indies won 4/4 in the group stage, while Zimbabwe secured 3 impressive wins including a high-scoring chase of 179. Momentum is high on both sides, but West Indies have faced stronger bowling attacks.
- Key Players: Brian Bennett (175 runs, unbeaten) and Shai Hope (155 runs, avg 51.66) are in top form. Muzarabani and Brad Evans have picked 17 wickets collectively, while West Indies’ spin trio has 12 wickets.
- Venue Factor: Wankhede favors chasing sides. Pacers get early swing, but spinners become effective in middle overs. Dew factor likely in second innings.
- Prediction Insight: West Indies hold a clear edge in depth, power-hitting, and spin quality. Zimbabwe must bat first and post 165+ to challenge effectively.
Match Details
| Match | WI vs ZIM, 44th Match, Super 8 T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, 23rd February 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
| Broadcaster | JioHotstar, Star Sports |
West Indies Preview
West Indies have looked dominant throughout the tournament. Their aggressive approach aligns perfectly with Indian conditions. The batting unit revolves around Shai Hope, who has anchored innings superbly. His strike rate of 135 and calm temperament provide stability.
Brandon King gives brisk starts, while Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford add middle-order firepower. Rovman Powell’s finishing ability can tilt games within a few overs. The side has depth with Jason Holder and Matthew Forde contributing late runs.
Bowling remains their biggest strength. Shamar Joseph brings raw pace, troubling batters early. Jason Holder uses variations cleverly, especially in death overs. However, the real threat lies in spin. Akeal Hosein’s economy and accuracy, Roston Chase’s control, and Motie’s wicket-taking ability create pressure in middle overs.
West Indies have adapted to Mumbai’s pitch conditions well. Their ability to defend totals and chase under pressure gives them a strategic advantage. If they maintain their composure, they remain favorites.
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe have emerged as surprise contenders. Their group-stage performance was impressive, particularly the successful chase of 179 against Sri Lanka. Confidence is high, and team unity has been evident.
Brian Bennett has been exceptional, scoring 175 runs in three matches without dismissal. Tadiwanashe Marumani complements him well at the top. Middle-order stability comes from Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl, both experienced campaigners.
Bowling spearhead Blessing Muzarabani has been outstanding, using bounce effectively. Brad Evans supports him strongly. Together they have claimed 17 wickets. Spin options include Wellington Masakadza and Raza, who could exploit Mumbai’s surface.
Zimbabwe’s challenge will be handling West Indies’ power-hitting. If they contain runs in the powerplay and pick early wickets, an upset is possible.
Team Squad
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani(w), Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza(c), Dion Myers, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Brad Evans, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa
West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope(w/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Jayden Seales, Quentin Sampson, Johnson Charles
Probable Playing XI
| West Indies | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|
| Brandon King | Brian Bennett |
| Shai Hope | Tadiwanashe Marumani |
| Shimron Hetmyer | Dion Myers |
| Roston Chase | Sikandar Raza |
| Sherfane Rutherford | Ryan Burl |
| Rovman Powell | Tony Munyonga |
| Jason Holder | Tashinga Musekiwa |
| Matthew Forde | Brad Evans |
| Akeal Hosein | Wellington Masakadza |
| Gudakesh Motie | Graeme Cremer |
| Shamar Joseph | Blessing Muzarabani |
West Indies vs Zimbabwe Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Player | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Shai Hope (C) | West Indies | WK-Batter |
| Brian Bennett (VC) | Zimbabwe | Batter |
| Brandon King | West Indies | Batter |
| Shimron Hetmyer | West Indies | Batter |
| Sikandar Raza | Zimbabwe | All-rounder |
| Jason Holder | West Indies | All-rounder |
| Ryan Burl | Zimbabwe | All-rounder |
| Akeal Hosein | West Indies | Bowler |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Zimbabwe | Bowler |
| Shamar Joseph | West Indies | Bowler |
| Gudakesh Motie | West Indies | Bowler |
This Fantasy XI is built around current form, role clarity, and pitch suitability at Wankhede Stadium. Shai Hope is the safest captaincy choice due to his consistency and anchoring ability. He plays the dual role of wicketkeeper and top-order batter, increasing point potential. Brian Bennett is unbeaten in the tournament so far and offers strong vice-captain value, especially if Zimbabwe bat first.
Brandon King and Shimron Hetmyer provide aggressive powerplay and middle-order scoring potential. Sikandar Raza and Jason Holder are high-impact all-rounders who contribute in both departments, making them essential fantasy assets. Ryan Burl adds depth as a spin option and lower-order hitter.
On the bowling front, Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie are key spin threats in middle overs, while Shamar Joseph’s pace can generate early breakthroughs. Blessing Muzarabani remains Zimbabwe’s strike bowler and wicket-taking option.
Captain & Vice-Captain Suggestions
- Captain: Shai Hope / Sikandar Raza
- Vice-Captain: Brian Bennett / Jason Holder
Players to Avoid
- Tony Munyonga
- Tashinga Musekiwa
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match – West Indies (Why?)
West Indies enter this clash as clear favorites due to their squad depth, experience in ICC tournaments, and better balance between batting firepower and bowling control. Their spin trio has been extremely effective in Indian conditions, and the batting lineup has multiple match-winners capable of accelerating at any stage.
They have adapted quicker to subcontinental pitches and shown composure in pressure situations. Zimbabwe have been impressive, but West Indies possess superior T20 pedigree and finishing strength.
Key Reasons:
- Strong middle-order power hitters
- Experienced spin attack suited to Mumbai pitch
- Better death bowling options
- Positive head-to-head record
West Indies T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 249 | 108 | 129 | 12 |
West Indies are two-time T20 World Cup champions and historically one of the most explosive T20 sides globally.
Zimbabwe T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 189 | 70 | 116 | 3 |
Zimbabwe have shown improvement in recent years but lack consistency against top-ranked teams.
Head-to-Head Stats – West Indies vs Zimbabwe
| Total Matches | West Indies Won | Zimbabwe Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 1 | 0 |
In head-to-head contests, West Indies dominate with three victories out of four encounters. Zimbabwe have managed one win but generally struggle against West Indies’ pace and power-hitting strength in T20 cricket.
Pitch Report
The pitch at Wankhede Stadium is batting-friendly with true bounce and good carry for strokeplay, making it conducive to high totals as the match progresses. Fast bowlers may extract some early movement with the new ball, but the surface typically eases for batters under lights. Spinners will get some assistance through the middle overs, especially as the ball softens, making this a balanced wicket that rewards aggressive batting and disciplined bowling. Expect a high-scoring encounter if teams bat sensibly and utilise depth in batting.
Weather Report
| Condition | Value |
|---|---|
| Temperature (High) | ~31°C |
| Temperature (Low) | ~22°C |
| Conditions | Hazy sunshine |
| Rain Chance | ~0% |
The forecast shows a hot evening with hazy sunshine and negligible chances of rain, ideal for uninterrupted cricket. Dew may become a factor later in the evening, aiding chasing teams under lights.
Broadcast Details
Coverage of the West Indies vs Zimbabwe Super 8 T20 World Cup clash will be available live on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network across India, with pre-match analysis and expert commentary leading into the game.
Toss Prediction
Based on conditions at Wankhede Stadium and typical ODI/T20 data, the toss-winning captain is likely to field first. The batting surface grips under lights, and dew later in the evening can assist run-chases, making it tactically advantageous to chase a target at night.
Probable Top Batsman & Bowler
Shai Hope is the most probable top batsman for this match; his consistent form and ability to accelerate make him a key threat at the top. Brian Bennett is another strong candidate due to his unbeaten run in the tournament so far, offering stability and scoring tempo. Among middle-order batters, Shimron Hetmyer and Sikandar Raza hold significant value, especially if their sides post or chase competitive totals.
On the bowling front, Blessing Muzarabani is likely to be among the top wicket-takers; his pace and bounce extraction suit the Wankhede surface. Akeal Hosein’s spin accuracy and knack for tying down opposition batters make him a strong bowling pick as well. Jason Holder and Ryan Burl also have potential to chip in with key overs, providing crucial breakthroughs for their respective teams.
West Indies vs Zimbabwe Winning Chances
| Team | Winning % | Why |
|---|---|---|
| West Indies | 78% | Strong batting depth, effective spin attack in India, better T20 pedigree |
| Zimbabwe | 22% | In-form top order, disciplined bowling but less depth |
West Indies’ balance of batting firepower and spin options gives them the edge, while Zimbabwe must outplay expectations to challenge.
Match Prediction
Considering current form, squad strength, pitch conditions, and historical performance, West Indies are more likely to win this Super 8 T20 encounter. Their depth in batting and proven spinners in Indian conditions provide tactical advantages over Zimbabwe.
Winner: West Indies Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
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