The opening Super Eight clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be played today between Pakistan national cricket team and New Zealand national cricket team in Colombo.
According to match details, both teams will face a major test at the R. Premadasa Stadium, where the contest is expected to set the tone for the Super Eight stage.
Pakistan and New Zealand reached the Super Eight after defeating weaker opponents in the group stage. However, both sides suffered defeats against stronger teams in their respective groups.
Between October 2022 and April 2025, the two teams have faced each other 41 times across formats, highlighting the intensity of their rivalry.
New Zealand’s biggest challenge will be adjusting to the venue, as the team previously played its matches in Chennai and Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, Pakistan has limited experience at the Premadasa Stadium, having played only one match there against India, although it played three other matches in Colombo at the Sinhalese Sports Club.
The key battle is expected between Pakistan’s spin attack and New Zealand’s batting lineup. The Kiwi side has lost only 14 wickets in its four matches so far, showing strong batting form.
The match will begin at 6:30pm Pakistan Standard Time.
