New Zealand will face co-hosts Sri Lanka in Match 46 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eight at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on February 25. This match is crucial for both teams as the Super Eight competition intensifies. New Zealand’s last match against Pakistan was abandoned, giving them one point, while Sri Lanka needs a win after a disappointing loss in their last game at home.
New Zealand (NZ)
New Zealand’s first Super Eight match against Pakistan was called off due to rain. They performed well in the group stage, winning three out of four matches. The team has been strong in both batting and bowling. Their top and middle order have scored well, and the bowlers have maintained consistent line and length to take wickets. New Zealand aims to use their experienced players to capitalize on Sri Lanka’s recent struggles.
Sri Lanka (SL)
Sri Lanka is under pressure after losing their opening Super Eight match to England by 51 runs. Their batting struggled significantly in spin-friendly conditions, leading to a low score. The hosts must win this match as their net run rate has been affected by the previous loss. Key players Mendis, Nissanka, and Pavan have been reliable throughout the group stage, but they need to improve in this match, particularly in the middle and lower order. Their bowlers, especially the spinners, performed well in previous games and will aim to maintain that form.
NZ vs SL Match Details
| NZ vs SL T20I WC Match Details | |
| Match | New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 8th Super Eight T20I Match |
| Date and Time | Wednesday, February 25; 7:00 p.m. IST |
| Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
| Broadcasting and live streaming | TV-Star Sports Network, Live Stream-JioHotstar |
NZ vs SL T20 WC Pitch Report
The pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium has hosted five matches this tournament. Teams batting first have won four, suggesting that setting a target can be effective. The surface has favored spinners in the middle overs, making it hard for batters to score runs with the old ball. A target of around 165-175 could prove competitive.
NZ vs SL T20 WC Weather Report
Forecast for the night match is mostly clear with temperatures around 25°C. There is a 25% chance of rain, but thunderstorms are unlikely. Winds will be moderate, with limited cloud cover, suggesting a full 40-over game is likely.
NZ vs SL Head-to-Head Records
| NZ vs SL head-to-head (in T20s) | |
| Matches Played | 28 |
| Won by New Zealand | 16 |
| Won by Sri Lanka | 09 |
| Tied | 2 |
| No Result | 1 |
NZ vs SL Probable XI
- New Zealand: Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson
- Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka
Players To Watch Out For in the NZ vs SL Match
- Tim Seifert | NZ: Tim Seifert has been impressive throughout the tournament, scoring 173 runs in four matches, with an average of 57.67 and a strike rate of 167.96. He has struck 21 fours and seven sixes and will aim to continue his good form, especially during the powerplay.
- Mitchell Santner | NZ: New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, has taken one wicket in four innings. The pitch is favorable for spinners, and Santner’s experience could be vital for his team’s performance.
- Pathum Nissanka | SL: Pathum Nissanka has been Sri Lanka’s top batter, accumulating 208 runs in five matches with an average of 52.00 and a strike rate of 154.07. With a century and a fifty to his name, he will be crucial for Sri Lanka’s batting efforts.
- Maheesh Theekshana | SL: Maheesh Theekshana has taken eight wickets in five matches while conceding 117 runs across 19.3 overs. His ability to maintain a controlled economy makes him a key player for Sri Lanka in the spin-friendly conditions.
NZ vs SL Toss Prediction
Historical Toss-Winning Stats at the Venue
- In the last three T20 matches at this venue, the team winning the toss has opted to bat first in two instances and chosen to bowl first once.
Advantages of Bowling First on This Pitch
- In the last 30 T20I matches at this venue, teams batting first have won 9 matches while those bowling first have won 21. However, recent trends suggest batting first could be ideal.
NZ vs SL Today’s Match Scenario
Scenario 1
- Toss Winner: NZ (opts to bat first)
- Power-Play Score: 45-50
- NZ Total: 175-190
- Match Winner: New Zealand
Scenario 2
- Toss Winner: SL (opts to bat first)
- Power-Play Score: 40-45
- SL Total: 160-175
- Match Winner: New Zealand
Who Will Win Today’s NZ vs SL T20 World Cup Match?
New Zealand enters this match as slight favorites due to their strong group-stage performance and balanced team. However, Sri Lanka has the advantage of home conditions. While New Zealand appears to have the edge, the match promises to be competitive.
