Pakistan begin the Super Eights of the T20 World Cup 2026 with New Zealand at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Between October 2022 and April 2025, the two sides met 41 times across formats, including 24 T20Is. Pakistan lead New Zealand 5-2 in T20 World Cups.
But this Super Eight clash at the R. Premadasa Stadium actually carries weight, and both teams arrive with something to prove after a group stage where they beat lower-ranked sides, but were comfortably handled by the one heavyweight they faced. New Zealand were thumped by South Africa, while Pakistan took a similar hit against India.
For New Zealand, the biggest adjustment is conditions. After playing in India, they now move to a Premadasa surface expected to favor spin, with bigger boundaries that can make run-scoring a grind.
Pakistan, meanwhile, have already played in Colombo and leaned into spin more than any other venue, a trend captain Salman Ali Agha has suggested will continue.
New Zealand’s batting has been stable and efficient, losing just 14 wickets in four games, while Pakistan’s top order remains explosive but inconsistent, especially with Saim Ayub struggling and Babar Azam still searching for peak impact.
How to Watch Pakistan vs New Zealand T20 World Cup
Cricket fans in Pakistan can catch the action live on PTV and PTV Sports. For viewers preferring online platforms, the match will be streamed on Tamasha, Myco, and Tapmad, ensuring multiple viewing options across TV and digital platforms.
