India Still the Best T20 Team Despite Loss to South Africa Michael Clarke

Despite India’s defeat to South Africa, which has slightly changed the equation of the ongoing T20 World Cup, former Australian captain Michael Clarke still considers India the best team in the world.

Speaking on a cricket podcast, Clarke said the win was a massive one for South Africa and a huge game overall. However, he believes the pressure is now on India after the loss. “To me, India are still the best team. They are the best T20 team in the world and are playing in conditions they know very well. I still see them making the final, even though things have changed a bit after losing to South Africa,” he said.

Clarke also analyzed India’s path ahead. According to him, India should comfortably defeat Zimbabwe in the Super Eight stage. “No disrespect to Zimbabwe—they deserve to be in the Super Eight—but I expect India to beat them easily. The real contest will be against West Indies. They are playing excellent cricket at the moment, full of confidence and rhythm. That match could determine which team qualifies as the second semifinalist from the group,” he added.

Clarke believes it would be a major surprise if India fail to qualify. “If you’re an Indian fan, you would be extremely disappointed and surprised. They are brilliant at T20 cricket. They are currently the best team in the world and are playing in familiar conditions. It would be huge if India didn’t qualify. Writing them off would be foolish—not just to qualify, but they are strong contenders to reach the final,” he said.

Clarke also spoke about South Africa, noting that even before the tournament began, he saw them as an underdog team capable of performing quietly but effectively. He believes their thrilling Super Over win against Afghanistan gave them added confidence. “They could have lost that match in regular time, and even in the first Super Over. But that win gave them a mental boost,” the former captain explained.

He also praised South Africa’s squad strength, saying that on paper they are as strong as any team. “Their bowling attack is outstanding. The batting lineup is young, fit, and athletic, and many of them have IPL experience. That experience helps in handling pressure on the big stage. They are no longer afraid of the big occasion,” he said.

Clarke believes South Africa had gained both confidence and momentum before facing India in the crucial match.