It’s the story from the Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) camp, just before the start of the T20 World Cup 2024, in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA). It was a tournament where the entire Caribbean wanted their mystery and successful spinner, Sunil Narine, to make a comeback in the national side. 

Their head coach, Darren Sammy, tried multiple times to convince Sunil to return to the side, who looked a bit thin in the spin department in the presence of only Akeal Hosein. The famous journalist, Vimal Kumar, during a recent interaction on Sony Sports Network, has leaked a story from the KKR campaign, when Narine gave the West Indies players a condition to feature in the home T20 World Cup 2024. 

SEE ALSO: WATCH: Jasprit Bumrah cleans up Harry Brook in ongoing ENG vs IND third Test at Lord’s

“I can say it’s exclusive; it’s the story of Sunil Narine!! He retired from international cricket in 2023, but their national players, Rovman Powell and Dwayne Bravo, wanted him to return to the national team. Narine wasn’t sure even after so many discussions, as the former players went to Gautam Gambhir to have a word with the spinner. After Gambhir spoke to him during a net session to accept the request, Narine turned back and asked him a simple question, ‘Will you coach me?’ Vimal Kumar narrated.

Watch: Sunil Narine keeps one condition to play T20 World Cup 2024

That statement was incredible from the veteran West Indies player, who was ready to make a return to the T20Is only if Gambhir coaches them. That shows the immense respect he has for his former captain and current coach on the KKR side. Narine could have made a huge difference for the Powell-led side in the World Cup 2024.

🗣️ WATCH : Never heard story by Vimal Kumar on Sunil Narine about how he almost played the T20 WC 2024.

BUT HIS ONE CONDITION?
GG🥺pic.twitter.com/RExiMd7uLw

— KKR Vibe (@KnightsVibe) July 11, 2025

In 49 T20I innings, the 37-year-old has picked up 52 wickets at an average of 21.25 and a strike rate of 21.1 besides an economy rate of just over six, thanks to the best bowling figures of 4/12. In the T20s around the globe, he has collected 589 wickets in 544 innings at an average of under 22 and an economy rate of just over six.

The West Indies qualified for the super eight stage, but went on to lose a do-or-die clash against South Africa and were out of the event. The two-time champions, overall, weren’t at their best in all three departments of the game.

History was made at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, as India triumphed over South Africa by 7 runs to claim the T20 World Cup 2024 title on Saturday, June 29.

The Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup 2024 was a whirlwind of excitement, showcasing the prowess and tenacity of the world’s top cricket teams. As teams battled it out to secure a spot in the semi-finals, their performances were a testament to their skill, strategy, and sheer determination. This article delves into the rankings based on their Super 8 performances, highlighting the key moments and players that defined their journeys.

Team rankings based on Super Eight performances

1. India: The Champions

India’s journey through the T20 World Cup 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. After their impressive runs in the World Test Championship 2023 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, India ensured a third successive finale appearance in the T20 World Cup by maintaining an unbeaten streak throughout the 2024 campaign.

Rohit Sharma’s leadership and consistent batting were pivotal. Hardik Pandya’s all-round performance, particularly his three-wicket haul in the final, was crucial. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh’s bowling figures of 2-18 and 2-20 respectively, were instrumental in their final match against South Africa.

In the final held in Bridgetown, India defended a target of 177 runs, restricting South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs. This victory marked the end of India’s decade-long ICC title drought, celebrating a historic win with a seven-run triumph over South Africa.

2. South Africa: The resilient contenders

South Africa’s journey to the T20 World Cup 2024 final was marked by resilience and determination. This was a landmark achievement as it was their first time reaching a World Cup final in any format.

South Africa had a perfect win record leading up to the final. They started strong against Sri Lanka, won closely contested matches against the Netherlands and Bangladesh, and topped Group 2 with victories over the USA, England, and West Indies.

Despite their robust performances, South Africa faced a tough defeat in the final against India, losing by seven runs. The match highlighted their strengths and areas for improvement as they aimed for their maiden World Cup title.

3. Afghanistan: The inspirational team

Afghanistan’s run in the T20 World Cup 2024 was inspirational, even though they fell short of a final appearance. Their journey was filled with historic victories and memorable performances.

Afghanistan made history by reaching their first-ever semi-final in a T20 World Cup. They defeated cricketing giants like New Zealand and Australia, and their thrilling eight-run victory over Bangladesh in St Vincent was a standout moment.

Although Afghanistan lost to South Africa in the semi-final, their performances over the last 12 months, including toppling top-ranked sides in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, showcased their growth and potential on the global stage.

4. England: The comeback kings

England’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 was a rollercoaster, characterized by a rocky start but a strong comeback in the Super 8 stage.

England’s campaign began with a rain-affected washout against Scotland and a heavy defeat to Australia. However, they bounced back in the Super 8 stage with a comprehensive win over the West Indies and a crucial victory against the USA.

In the semi-final against India, England’s campaign ended with a 68-run defeat. Despite the ups and downs, their ability to regroup and perform in crucial matches was commendable.

5. West Indies: The early pacesetters

West Indies started the T20 World Cup 2024 with a strong performance but faced challenges that led to their exit before the semi-finals.

West Indies topped Group D in the first round, but their form dipped in the Super 8 stage. Key defeats to England and South Africa cost them a spot in the semi-finals.

6. Australia: The mixed performers

Australia’s campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024 was inconsistent, marked by struggles against lower-ranked teams and notable victories.

Australia faced unexpected challenges against teams like Oman and Afghanistan. However, they managed to secure significant victories, including a dominant performance against defending champions England.

Despite their ups and downs, Australia’s ability to compete against top teams was evident, even though they ultimately missed out on the semi-finals.

7. Bangladesh: The underdogs

Bangladesh’s journey in the T20 World Cup 2024 was marked by determined performances and missed opportunities.

Bangladesh secured wins against Sri Lanka, Netherlands, and Nepal but fell short against stronger teams in the Super 8 stage. Their lack of initiative to push for a semi-final spot highlighted areas for growth.

8. USA: The Surprise Package

The USA cricket team’s debut in the T20 World Cup 2024 was historic and filled with surprising successes.

USA’s campaign included a shocking upset over Pakistan and victories against Canada and Bangladesh. Their performance in the Super 8 stage, though eventually ending in elimination, was a testament to their potential and growth in international cricket.