The high-intensity Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 officially commences on 21 February. The opening fixture features a heavyweight clash between New Zealand and Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium, marking the start of a round-robin phase where eight of the world’s top teams battle for a place in the semi-finals. New Zealand vs Pakistan Prediction: Who Will Win NZ vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Match?.

The R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo is expected to offer its typical subcontinental characteristics: a surface that assists stroke-makers early on but provides significant turn for spinners as the match progresses. Given the evening start time, humidity will be a factor, and the toss may prove crucial if dew makes the ball difficult to grip for the side bowling second.

Today’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule (21 February)

Category Details
Match New Zealand vs Pakistan (Super 8, Group 2)
Date & Time Saturday, 21 February 2026, 7:00 pm IST (1:30 pm GMT)
Venue R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Live Streaming (India) JioHotstar
TV Broadcast (India) Star Sports Network
Key Players to Watch Sahibzada Farhan (PAK), Mitchell Santner (NZ)

Match 41: New Zealand vs Pakistan (Colombo)

The first Super 8 fixture brings together two sides that have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament. Pakistan secured their spot with a dominant 102-run victory over Namibia, anchored by a historic maiden T20I century from Sahibzada Farhan. Colombo Weather and Rain Forecast for New Zealand vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Match.

New Zealand, captained by Mitchell Santner, advanced comfortably after finishing second in Group D. The Black Caps have relied on a balanced attack and the form of Rachin Ravindra, but they face a stern test against a Pakistan side that has historically performed well in Sri Lankan conditions.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 21, 2026 04:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).