The Super 8 stage of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup gets underway today at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
The opening clash will see Pakistan take on New Zealand in what promises to be a high-voltage encounter.
Both teams suffered one defeat each during the group stage. New Zealand went down to South Africa, while Pakistan were beaten by India. With the stakes now higher in the Super 8 round, both sides will be desperate to start strong.
The Premadasa surface is traditionally known to assist spinners, making it a venue where slow bowlers could play a decisive role.
Pakistan’s Usman Tariq could emerge as a key threat with the ball, while New Zealand’s in-form openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert have been among the runs and will look to provide a flying start.
The match is scheduled to begin at 7 PM Sri Lanka time.