Pakistan and New Zealand will open the Super Eights stage of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Saturday, February 21, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Both teams, considered dark horses for the title, are looking to make a strong start in this crucial phase of the tournament. Pakistan enter the match after a commanding 102-run victory over Namibia that secured their Super Eights berth, while New Zealand finished their group stage with an eight-wicket win against Canada.
Pakistan’s Shadab Khan expressed confidence that his side could go on to win the World Cup, calling their recent performance a sign of progress after earlier setbacks, including a heavy defeat to India. He cautioned, however, that the Super Eights will be tougher, with England and co-hosts Sri Lanka also awaiting Pakistan. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is expected to return after illness, with spin likely to play a key role in Colombo’s conditions.
This will be the 50th T20 meeting between the two nations, with Pakistan narrowly leading the head-to-head record 24–23. Both sides hope to establish early momentum in their pursuit of the title.
Share Who: New Zealand vs Pakistan What: 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super Eights When: Saturday, February 21, at 7pm (13:30 GMT) Where: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka How to follow: We’ll have all the buildup on Al Jazeera Sport from 10:30
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