Pakistan vs New Zealand, Super 8, Group 2 T20 World Cup 2026 Match Prediction – PAK vs NZ Today Match Preview, Pitch Report & Toss Prediction

PAK vs NZ Betting Tips

• Match Winner: Pakistan to win
• Top Pakistan Batter: Sahibzada Farhan
• Top New Zealand Batter: Tim Seifert
• Top Pakistan Bowler: Usman Tariq
• 1st Innings Total (Pakistan batting first): Over 165 runs
• Powerplay Runs (New Zealand): Under 50.5 runs

Pakistan vs New Zealand Betting Odds

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Pakistan vs New Zealand Match Prediction & Analysis

This Super 8 clash brings together two sides that finished second in their respective groups, both with three wins from four matches. New Zealand’s only slip came against South Africa, while Pakistan were outplayed by India. Beyond that, consistency has been the hallmark for both teams.

Conditions in Colombo are expected to be slow, with turn on offer as the match progresses. That plays directly into Pakistan’s hands. Their spin unit has already taken 26 of the team’s 33 wickets in the tournament, underlining how central slow bowling has been to their success so far.

New Zealand’s strength lies in their top order firepower. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert have combined aggressively at the top, striking at well over 160. However, against quality spin on a sluggish surface, their intent will need to be balanced with smart shot selection.

Historically, New Zealand have enjoyed success against Pakistan in recent bilateral meetings, including multiple wins in 2025. But tournament cricket in subcontinental conditions often tells a different story. Pakistan’s familiarity with these surfaces could prove decisive in a tight contest.

PAK vs NZ Head to Head (T20Is)

PAK vs NZ Head to Head (T20I World Cup)

PAK vs NZ Team Preview

Pakistan

Pakistan arrive with momentum after three convincing wins, including a dominant 102-run victory over Namibia. Their batting has revolved around Sahibzada Farhan, who smashed 100 off 58 balls in the previous match and has been their standout performer.

The middle order, featuring Babar Azam and Usman Khan, has focused on consolidation rather than explosive hitting. Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz handle finishing duties, especially against pace in the death overs.

Spin remains Pakistan’s biggest weapon. Usman Tariq has been particularly effective, boasting an economy of 5.82 and unsettling batters with his unorthodox action. Alongside Abrar Ahmed and Nawaz, Pakistan can realistically bowl spin for up to 16–18 overs if conditions allow.

PAK Probable Playing XI- Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed

New Zealand

New Zealand enter the Super 8s with confidence after wins over Canada, UAE, Afghanistan, and the USA. Their batting has looked fluid, especially at the top. Tim Seifert leads the run charts for the side with 173 runs at a strike rate of 168, while Finn Allen continues to attack from ball one.

The middle order has been steady rather than explosive. Glenn Phillips, coming off a blistering 76 off 36 balls, remains their biggest X-factor. Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman provide stability, ensuring the innings doesn’t stall against spin.

Bowling-wise, Matt Henry and Jacob Duffy have delivered control with the new ball. Mitchell Santner’s left-arm spin will be crucial on this surface, and there is a strong possibility of adding an extra spinner to exploit conditions.

NZ Probable Playing XI– Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham / Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy

PAK vs NZ Pitch Report

The match will be played at R. Premadasa Stadium, a venue known for slowing down as the game progresses. The highest total at this venue in the 2026 T20 World Cup so far is 182/6, indicating that anything above 170 is strongly competitive.

• Average first-innings score: 150
• Competitive total: 170+
• Dew factor: Possible (if rain intervenes)

PAK vs NZ Weather Report

• Temperature: Around 25-27°C
• Sky Conditions: 100% Cloud cover
• Rain: 70-80%
• Wind Speed: 2-4 km/h

Weather interruptions could bring the DLS method into play, making chasing slightly more comfortable.

PAK vs NZ Toss Prediction

With rain expected and cloud cover around, teams winning the toss are likely to bowl first. Historically, captains at this venue prefer to chase when conditions are uncertain.

Toss Prediction: Bowl first

Pakistan vs New Zealand Winning Prediction

Both teams have the firepower to win this match, but conditions tilt the balance marginally towards Pakistan. Their deeper spin attack, recent form, and comfort on slow subcontinental pitches give them a narrow but clear edge.

New Zealand will stay in the contest if their top order fires and Glenn Phillips delivers another impact innings. However, sustained spin pressure through the middle overs could restrict their scoring options.

Final Prediction: Pakistan to win

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