The T20 World Cup Super Eight match between Pakistan and New Zealand at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo was abandoned due to rain on Saturday, with no reserve day available for the fixture. As a result, both teams were forced to share one point each, adding uncertainty to their qualification prospects.
Pakistan now have two matches remaining in the Super Eight stage — against England and Sri Lanka. If the Salman Ali Agha-led side manage to win both matches, they will finish with five points, which should be enough to secure a place in the Final 4. However, a mixed result — one win and one loss — will leave them with three points, meaning their fate will depend entirely on other teams’ results. Losing both remaining matches will eliminate Pakistan from semifinal contention.
Match Details and Team Changes
Amid light drizzle, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first. However, the weather worsened quickly, with steady rain turning into heavy showers, forcing officials to abandon the match without a ball being bowled.
Pakistan made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Fakhar Zaman in place of Khawaja Nafay. New Zealand, meanwhile, made three changes, with captain Mitchell Santner returning after missing the previous match against Canada due to a stomach issue. Lockie Ferguson and Ish Sodhi were also included in the lineup.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Pakistan will now take on England in Colombo on February 24, while New Zealand will face Sri Lanka on February 25. The washout has tightened the race for the semifinals, with both teams now under pressure in their remaining fixtures.
Given Sri Lanka’s unpredictable weather conditions, another rain-affected match or a defeat could seriously damage the semifinal hopes of both Pakistan and New Zealand.