Danny Morrison picks his semi-finalists for T20 World Cup 2026, ignores two-time champions

Former New Zealand cricketer and renowned commentator Danny Morrison has named his four semi-finalists for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with his picks drawing attention due to the omission of two-time champions West Indies.

In a video going viral on social media, the Kiwi commentator backed defending champions India, along with New Zealand, England, and South Africa, stressing home advantage, recent form, and familiarity with Indian conditions as key factors behind his selections. Explaining his choices, Morrison underlined India’s dominance at home and the depth available to the co-hosts.

“Co-host India in their own backyard, this blue juggernaut is hard to stop. I’m going to go with New Zealand because they just played in India, got some top firepower, plenty of players to pick and choose from- all powerhouses. Then England, and fourth South Africa, because of a lot of these players have played in the Indian Premier League and have got experience in those conditions,” said Morrison via Star Sports.

Check the video here

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India enter the 2026 edition as the reigning champions, having lifted the title in 2024 under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, and will be eager to defend their crown on home soil. Morrison also placed strong faith in New Zealand, pointing to their recent tour of India and a well-rounded squad capable of adapting to challenging conditions.

England, the 2009 and 2022 champions, remain one of the most formidable white-ball sides in the world, boasting explosive batting depth and proven match-winners like Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, and Harry Brook among others. Meanwhile, South Africa’s growing core of IPL-experienced players and their improving record in subcontinental conditions earned them the final semi-final spot.

The most notable omission from Morrison’s list is West Indies, the champions in 2012 and 2016, who have struggled to consistently replicate their past success in recent ICC tournaments. The T20 extravaganza is already underway, and all four picks of Morrison have opened their account with a win in their respective opening matches.