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What NZ washout means for Pakistan semi-final qualification

COLOMBO: The washout of the Pakistan vs New Zealand Super Eight clash has made every game crucial in Group 2 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Persistent drizzle right after the toss — which Pakistan won and opted to bat — at the Premadasa Stadium did not relent, and the umpires finally called the match off at 9:05pm local time (15:35 GMT).

Not even a five-over match was possible by the 10:16 pm (1646 GMT) cut-off time, giving the two teams one point each.

For Pakistan qualification in the semi-finals without relying on the Net Run Rate, they simply have to win two of their remaining games against England and Sri Lanka.

The victories will ensure Pakistan finishes on five points, virtually booking their place in the semi-finals.

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The second scenario for Pakistan qualification is to win one and lose the other, then their fate will be determined by other results and NRR.

With two losses in their remaining games, Pakistan would remain on one point, resulting in immediate elimination.

The washout has effectively made every game a virtual knockout. leaving very little margin for error.

However, the actual situation will become clearer after the clash between Sri Lanka and England on February 22.

Pakistan are placed alongside Sri Lanka, England and New Zealand in Group 2.

Their next match will be against England on February 24, followed by last game against host Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, title-holders India, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the West Indies are placed in Group 1.

The top two teams from each Group will qualify for the semi-finals.

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Pakistan-New Zealand Super Eight fixture abandoned after rain

COLOMBO: The opening fixture of the Super Eights stage in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 between Pakistan and New Zealand has been abandoned due to heavy rain.

Continuous rain has prevented the play from proceeding after the toss. The cutoff time for a minimum five-over contest was 9:45 pm; however, the contest was cancelled due to a heavy downpour. Both teams have given one point each.

Pakistan will play their next match against England on February 24 in Kandy. Meanwhile, New Zealand will lock horns against Sri Lanka on Feb 25 in RPS, Colombo.

Earlier, Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha won the toss and decided to bat first. The Green Shirts have made one change to their playing XI with Khawaja Nafay making way for Fakhar Zaman.

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On the contrary, New Zealand have made three changes to their side. Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, and Mitchell Santner are included in the lineup.

Playing XIs

New Zealand XI: Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (capt), Jimmy Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

Pakistan XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (capt), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq

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T20 World Cup: Rain delays Pakistan-New Zealand clash

COLOMBO: The opening encounter of the Super Eights stage in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 between Pakistan and New Zealand has been delayed due to rain.

Continuous rain has prevented the play from proceeding after the toss. The cutoff time for a result is 7:45 pm PKT, while the deadline to complete a minimum five-over contest is 9:45 pm, provided the rain stops.

Earlier, Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha won the toss and decided to bat first. The Green Shirts have made one change to their playing XI with Khawaja Nafay making way for Fakhar Zaman.

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On the contrary, New Zealand have made three changes to their side. Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, and Mitchell Santner are included in the lineup.

Playing XIs

New Zealand XI: Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (capt), Jimmy Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

Pakistan XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (capt), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq

HEAD TO HEAD

Pakistan and New Zealand have faced each other 49 times in the shorter format. The Green Shirts are one match ahead with 24 wins.

In the T20 World Cups, Pakistan leads with five victories, while New Zealand has won two.

Total: 49 — Pakistan 24, New Zealand 23, No Result 2

READ: Harry Brook responds to reports of Pakistan players’ snub in The Hundred

T20 World Cup: Fakhar back as Pakistan win toss against New Zealand

COLOMBO: Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against New Zealand in the opening encounter of the Super Eights stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 here at RPS Stadium on Saturday.

Playing XIs

New Zealand XI: Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (capt), Jimmy Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

Pakistan XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (capt), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq

HEAD TO HEAD

Pakistan and New Zealand have faced each other 49 times in the shorter format. The Green Shirts are one match ahead with 24 wins.

In the T20 World Cups, Pakistan leads with five victories, while New Zealand has won two.

Total: 49 — Pakistan 24, New Zealand 23, No Result 2

READ: Harry Brook responds to reports of Pakistan players’ snub in The Hundred

Harry Brook responds to reports of Pakistan players’ snub in The Hundred

England captain Harry Brook has responded to mounting speculation that Pakistan players could be overlooked in the upcoming edition of The Hundred, saying it would be “a shame” if the tournament misses out on their presence.

Reports in English media have suggested that franchises with Indian Premier League (IPL)-linked ownership may refrain from picking Pakistan cricketers at next month’s auction.

While the development has triggered debate across the cricketing world, Brook made it clear that England’s focus lies elsewhere.

“Our main focus now is what’s coming up in the T20 World Cup. It’s not really any of our business, to be honest,” Brook said in a recent interview.

Even so, the England skipper did not shy away from acknowledging Pakistan’s stature in the game. He described the country as one of cricket’s most influential forces and stressed that the global circuit benefits from their involvement.

“Pakistan have been a great cricket nation for many years. I think there’s about 50, 60 players in the auction, and it would be a shame to not see some of them in there,” he remarked.

Harry Brook further underlined the broader impact Pakistani players bring to franchise tournaments, not just through skill, but through fan engagement and atmosphere.

“There’s some amazing cricketers and they bring some great crowds as well. It would be a shame to not see some of the Pakistan players in there and make the tournament and competition even better,” he added.

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The speculation stems from reports indicating that four franchises, Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave and Sunrisers Leeds, all partially owned by IPL-linked investors, could bypass Pakistan players in the men’s auction scheduled for March 12 in London, following the women’s auction on March 11.

According to the reports, a senior England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) official informed an agent that interest in Pakistan players would likely be limited to franchises not associated with IPL ownership.

Another agent reportedly described the situation as an “unwritten rule” in leagues influenced by IPL investments.

The claims appear to contradict assurances previously made by ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould, who had stated that Pakistani players would not face restrictions in England’s 100-ball competition.

“We are aware of the challenges Pakistani players face in other regions, but that won’t be happening here,” Gould had said last year, reaffirming the board’s commitment to inclusivity.

Pakistan cricketers have not featured in the IPL since 2008 and have also had limited opportunities in other IPL-linked leagues such as SA20, ILT20 and Major League Cricket (MLC).

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Colombo weather update ahead of Pakistan-New Zealand Super Eight clash

COLOMBO: Weather could play a significant role in Saturday’s Super Eight clash between Pakistan and New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium.

Weather reports indicate overcast skies and light showers this afternoon, creating a warm, humid and potentially disruptive atmosphere ahead of play.

Current temperatures hover around 30°C, but with humidity near 80%, it feels closer to 37°C, while shaded areas record a RealFeel of 34°C.

Winds are gusting up to 26 km/h from the west-northwest, adding an occasional breeze to the conditions.

Rainfall measured so far stands at 7.6 mm, with a 75 percent chance of further showers, and cloud cover close to complete at 99 percent.

Visibility is moderate at around 5 km. The high dew point of 24°C further reflects the moisture-laden air, conditions that could influence both bowling and batting strategies.

By evening, conditions are expected to improve slightly, with temperatures dropping to around 25°C and a RealFeel of 29°C.

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While skies will remain fully cloudy, chances of rain are forecast to fall to 25 percent.

Winds will ease, blowing from the east at around 7 km/h, and humidity is likely to rise further to 86 percent, keeping the atmosphere sticky as dew becomes a possible factor later in the night.

For Pakistan, this match carries considerable importance after a strong Group A performance that saw them finish second with three wins from four games, their only loss coming against India.

In the Super Eights, they find themselves in Group 2 alongside the co-hosts Sri Lanka, New Zealand and England.

Historically, Pakistan have enjoyed the edge over New Zealand in T20 World Cup meetings, leading the head-to-head 5-2 across seven encounters.

In all T20 internationals between the two teams, Pakistan hold a narrow advantage with 24 wins to New Zealand’s 23, while two matches ended without a result.

READ: Mike Hesson explains Babar Azam demotion in Namibia clash

Bangladesh confirm ODI series schedule against Pakistan

LAHORE: Pakistan’s men’s cricket team is set to tour Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series, starting on March 11 in Dhaka.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the schedule in a press release.

“Pakistan will arrive in Bangladesh on March 9 and will undergo a training session on March 10 ahead of the opening ODI against the hosts at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNCS) in Dhaka on March 11,” the statement said.

“The second and third ODIs are scheduled for March 13 and March 15, respectively, with all matches at the same venue,” it added,

The second match of the series will be played on March 13, while the last ODI will be played on March 15.

All three fixtures are scheduled to be played at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.

The Green Shirts will return home and will tour Bangladesh again in May after the completion of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11.

The two sides will meet for a two-match Test series in May, part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle.

The first Test is slated to take place in Dhaka from May 8 to 12, while the second Test will be held in Chattogram from May 16 to 20.

Pakistan’s visit forms part of Bangladesh’s packed home international calendar for the 2026 season.

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The Tigers are scheduled to host four Tests, 12 ODIs, and nine T20Is across the year, beginning with Pakistan’s tour immediately after the T20 World Cup.

After Pakistan ODIs, the New Zealand men’s cricket team will arrive for a white-ball series starting April 17.

Later in the season, Australia are also set to tour Bangladesh for three ODIs and three T20Is, with matches scheduled around mid-June.

Bangladesh are further expected to host India for a limited-overs series in August-September 2026, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is, following a two-match Test series against the West Indies men’s cricket team under the WTC.

However, uncertainty surrounds India’s tour after recent tensions, including Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the T20 World Cup in India, where they were replaced by Scotland.

Schedule of Pakistan-Bangladesh series

First ODI – March 11
Second ODI – March 13
Third ODI – March 15
First Test – May 8 to 12
Second Test – May 16 to 20

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Heavy rain cancels Pakistan practice before New Zealand clash

COLOMBO: Pakistan men’s cricket team practice session ahead of their Super Eight opening match in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 against New Zealand has been cancelled due to rain.

The Green Shirts were scheduled to hold a training session before locking horns against the BlackCaps at the RPS Stadium tomorrow. However, the weather has forced them to change their plans.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson is set to hold a press conference at 6:30 pm PKT.

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For those unaware, Pakistan finished second in Group A, winning three out of four games. They faced a 61-run defeat against India while securing wins against Namibia, USA, and the Netherlands.

The 2009 champions are scheduled to play England on February 24 before taking on hosts Sri Lanka in their final encounter on Feb 28.

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan Super Eights schedule

February 21: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Colombo

February 24: England vs Pakistan – Kandy

February 28: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan – Colombo

Other Super Eight Fixtures

February 22: Sri Lanka vs England – Kandy

February 22: India vs South Africa – Ahmedabad

February 23: West Indies vs Zimbabwe – Mumbai

February 25: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – Colombo

February 26: South Africa vs West Indies – Ahmedabad

February 26: India vs Zimbabwe – Chennai

February 27: England vs New Zealand – Colombo

March 1: South Africa vs Zimbabwe – Ahmedabad

March 1: India vs West Indies – Kolkata

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Pakistan Super Eight schedule confirmed after Namibia rout

COLOMBO: Pakistan on Wednesday became the eighth and final team to seal a berth in the Super Eight of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a decisive 102-run win over Namibia.

Following Pakistan’s victory, the Super Eight lineups and fixtures are now confirmed.

Pakistan finished in second place in Group A with six points from four matches. The Green Shirts won three games and lost one against their bitter rivals, India.

The Super Eight will feature four teams, split into two groups. Group 1 will feature India, Zimbabwe, West Indies, and South Africa. Group 2 will have England, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Each team will play every other team in its group once. The teams will not carry over their group-stage standings.

The road to the semi-final will commence with the 2009 champions, Pakistan, taking on New Zealand on February 21 in Colombo.

They will then face England on February 24 in Kandy, while their last match will be against host Sri Lanka in Colombo.

The Super Eight stage will conclude with the final match between India and West Indies in Kolkata.

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan Super Eights schedule

February 21: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Colombo

February 24: England vs Pakistan – Kandy

February 28: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan – Colombo

Other Super Eight Fixtures

February 22: Sri Lanka vs England – Kandy

February 22: India vs South Africa – Ahmedabad

February 23: West Indies vs Zimbabwe – Mumbai

February 25: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand – Colombo

February 26: South Africa vs West Indies – Ahmedabad

February 26: India vs Zimbabwe – Chennai

February 27: England vs New Zealand – Colombo

March 1: South Africa vs Zimbabwe – Ahmedabad

March 1: India vs West Indies – Kolkata

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Sahibzada, Tariq propel Pakistan into Super Eights with big win

COLOMBO: Sahibzada Farhan’s maiden T20I century and clinical bowling powered Pakistan to a big 102-run win over Namibia in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 must-win clash on Wednesday at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground.

Set a daunting target, Namibia were bowled out for 97 in 17.3 overs.

Namibia’s openers started steadily in the chase, adding 32 in 4.1 overs. However, Salman Mirza’s first breakthrough stalled the Eagles’ chase.

After losing the first wicket, Namibia never came back in the game as Pakistan bowlers tightened the screws with regular wickets.

As a result, Namibia were reduced to 49-4 in 7.3 overs.

JJ Smit and Alexander Busing-Volschenk tried to arrest the slide with a 30-run partnership. The pair managed to bring the total to 79 in 12.3 overs.

But it was Usman Tariq’s mystery and Shadab Khan’s sharp leg spin bowling that quickly unraveled Namibia’s innings.

Louren Steenkamp top-scored with 23 off 22 balls with the aid of three fours and a six.

For Pakistan, Usman Tariq stood out among the bowlers, picking up a four-wicket haul. Shadab Khan supported him well with his three wickets.

Earlier, Pakistan posted a formidable 199-3 against Namibia in their 20 overs.

Opting to bat first, Pakistan made a brisk start as Farhan and Saim Ayub stitched together a quickfire 40-run opening stand in just over five overs.

The partnership ended when Jack Brassell dismissed Ayub for 14 off 12 balls, an innings that included two boundaries.

Skipper Salman Ali Agha then joined Farhan at the crease, and the pair built a steady 67-run partnership for the second wicket, guiding Pakistan past the 100-run mark and laying the foundation for a big total.

Brassell struck again to remove Agha for a well-made 38 off 23 balls, leaving Pakistan at 107-2 in 12.1 overs.

Youngster Khawaja Nafay was promoted to number four but could only manage five runs before falling to Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus.

Sahibzada Farhan, however, continued to dominate. Joined by Shadab Khan, the duo added an unbeaten 81-run stand for the fourth wicket to propel Pakistan to an imposing total.

Shadab, after a cautious start, accelerated to finish on 36 off 22 balls, striking one four and three sixes.

The night, though, belonged to Farhan. The right-hander remained unbeaten on 100 from 58 deliveries, hammering 11 fours and four sixes in a commanding display of strokeplay.

With this milestone, he became only the second Pakistani batter after Ahmed Shehzad to score a century in a Men’s T20 World Cup.

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