Rain Forces Abandonment in Pakistan vs New Zealand T20 World Cup Super 8 Opener

COLOMBO: The Super Eight stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 began without a result on Saturday as persistent rain forced the abandonment of the fixture between Pakistan and New Zealand at the R Premadasa Stadium. Match officials called off the game after the 10:15 PM cut-off time passed, leaving both nations to split the points.

Super Eight Implications

Because the match ended as a "No Result," Pakistan and New Zealand each received one point in Group 2. The wash-out intensifies the pressure on both squads, as the Super Eight phase does not allocate reserve days for group stage matches. Reserve days are available strictly for the semi-finals and final.

Advancement to the knockouts now depends heavily on the remaining two fixtures. A future loss or another weather-related cancellation could eliminate either team, complicating the path for Group 2 rivals England and Sri Lanka.

Toss and Team Selections

Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat before the weather deteriorated. While light drizzle was present at the toss, conditions worsened rapidly, preventing play. ICC regulations require a minimum of five overs per side to constitute a valid match.

Prior to the abandonment, both captains submitted their playing XIs, confirming strategic changes:

• New Zealand: Captain Mitchell Santner returned to the lineup after missing the previous match against Canada due to illness. The Black Caps also added pace bowler Lockie Ferguson and spinner Ish Sodhi.
• Pakistan: The team replaced Khawaja Nafay with veteran batter Fakhar Zaman to strengthen the top order.

Upcoming Group 2 Fixtures

The tournament schedule continues with critical matchups for the Group 2 contenders. Pakistan travels to Pallekele, while New Zealand remains in Colombo.

For complete tournament statistics and official updates, visit the International Cricket Council (ICC), New Zealand Cricket, or the Pakistan Cricket Board.