New Zealand vs Pakistan Prediction: Who Will Win NZ vs PAK 41st Match, Super 8 Group 2 T20 Match on 21st February 2026?
The New Zealand vs Pakistan prediction for the 41st Match, Super 8 Group 2 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 sets up a high-stakes clash at the spin-friendly R. Premadasa Stadium. Both teams arrive in Colombo with three wins from the group stage, but each suffered a key defeat — New Zealand to South Africa and Pakistan to India. Now, the Super 8 phase resets momentum and intensifies pressure.
Pakistan’s strategy on sluggish surfaces has been clear: spin dominance. They bowled 18 overs of spin against India and are likely to replicate that tactic here. Usman Tariq has been economical (5.82 economy), while Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz have combined effectively through middle overs.
New Zealand counter with power-hitting and spin competence. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen have smashed 15 sixes collectively in the tournament. Glenn Phillips’ unbeaten 76* off 36 against Canada highlights their explosive middle-order depth.
Historically, the rivalry is razor-thin — Pakistan lead 24-23 in 49 meetings. However, Pakistan hold a 5-2 edge in T20 World Cups. With Colombo’s surface favoring spin and tactical patience, execution in middle overs will decide this encounter.
Cricketwebs provides complete match analysis, fantasy picks, pitch report, winning probabilities, and expert prediction.
- Pakistan likely to deploy heavy spin attack on Colombo’s sluggish pitch.
- Tim Seifert & Finn Allen have combined for 15 sixes in tournament.
- Usman Tariq economy rate: 5.82 — a key factor in middle overs.
- Head-to-head extremely close: Pakistan 24 – NZ 23.
This Super 8 opener represents a reset opportunity. Pakistan’s bowling unit has leaned heavily on spin, claiming 26 of 33 wickets via slower bowlers. On low surfaces, this approach becomes even more potent. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s aggressive powerplay scoring rate (10.33) shows their ability to attack early before spin dominance sets in.
Both teams are tactically flexible. NZ may introduce Ish Sodhi to strengthen spin depth. Pakistan rely on Abrar’s mystery spin and Nawaz’s control. The contest will hinge on powerplay momentum versus middle-overs spin choke.
Match Details
| Match | NZ vs PAK, 41st Match, Super 8 Group 2 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, 21st February 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
| Tournament | ICC T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Broadcast | JioHotstar, Star Sports Network |
Team Previews
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand national cricket team enter the Super 8 stage with momentum but also unfinished business. They progressed from Group D with three wins, powered by aggressive powerplay batting and flexible bowling combinations. However, their defeat to South Africa exposed minor vulnerabilities against high-quality spin and disciplined death bowling — factors that could resurface against Pakistan in Colombo.
New Zealand’s biggest strength remains their explosive top order. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen have combined to dominate the powerplay, striking above 160 and consistently clearing the ropes. Their ability to attack before spin takes control is crucial on slow Sri Lankan surfaces. Rachin Ravindra provides a left-handed option who can rotate strike against spin, while Glenn Phillips remains the enforcer in overs 7–15. Phillips’ 76* off 36 in the last outing underlined his ability to dismantle both pace and spin.
Daryl Mitchell brings stability at No. 5, often acting as the innings anchor. His strike rotation and boundary-hitting ability make him essential on surfaces where timing matters more than brute force. Mitchell Santner’s leadership adds tactical clarity, especially in bowling rotations. On slow wickets, Santner’s left-arm spin becomes even more valuable in controlling middle overs.
The bowling attack is balanced. Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson provide pace and bounce early, while Jacob Duffy supports with accuracy. Given Colombo’s sluggish pitch, New Zealand may include Ish Sodhi to strengthen spin depth. The tactical challenge will be countering Pakistan’s heavy spin strategy without losing momentum.
If New Zealand execute their powerplay plans effectively and avoid middle-over stagnation, they possess enough firepower and bowling versatility to dominate this clash.
New Zealand – Top Run Scorers – ICC T20 World Cup 2026
| Player | Matches | Runs | Bat Avg | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tim Seifert | 4 | 173 | 57.67 | 89* |
| Finn Allen | 4 | 137 | 45.67 | 84* |
| Glenn Phillips | 4 | 119 | 59.50 | 76* |
| Mark Chapman | 4 | 76 | 38.00 | 48 |
| Rachin Ravindra | 4 | 72 | 36.00 | 59* |
New Zealand – Last 5 T20 Matches
| No. | Date | Series | Ground | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 31/01/2026 | India | Greenfield International Stadium | India won by 46 runs |
| 2 | 08/02/2026 | Afghanistan | MA Chidambaram Stadium | New Zealand won by 5 wickets |
| 3 | 10/02/2026 | United Arab Emirates | MA Chidambaram Stadium | New Zealand won by 10 wickets |
| 4 | 14/02/2026 | South Africa | Narendra Modi Stadium | South Africa won by 7 wickets |
| 5 | 17/02/2026 | Canada | MA Chidambaram Stadium | New Zealand won by 8 wickets |
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan national cricket team arrive in the Super 8 with renewed confidence after securing three group-stage wins. Their campaign has been defined by spin dominance and controlled middle-overs pressure. The loss to India was a setback, but their tactical clarity has improved since.
The top order looks settled. Sahibzada Farhan’s century against Namibia demonstrated intent and composure. Saim Ayub provides aggressive starts, while Salman Agha offers balance between acceleration and control. Babar Azam remains the anchor — his ability to pace an innings is crucial on slow surfaces like Colombo.
The middle order contains multiple spin-hitters. Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz are capable of targeting spinners late in the innings. Usman Khan adds stability and flexibility depending on match situation.
Pakistan’s defining strength is their bowling. Shaheen Afridi remains lethal with the new ball, capable of early breakthroughs. However, spin has carried the bulk of the workload. Abrar Ahmed’s mystery spin, Nawaz’s control, and Shadab’s variations make Pakistan extremely dangerous in overs 7–15. Usman Tariq’s unconventional action adds unpredictability.
Pakistan’s challenge lies in maintaining run flow if early wickets fall. Their batting can occasionally slow against disciplined spin. If their bowlers dominate middle overs and restrict New Zealand below 165, Pakistan can seize control.
Pakistan – Top Run Scorers – ICC T20 World Cup 2026
| Player | Matches | Runs | Bat Avg | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sahibzada Farhan | 4 | 220 | 73.33 | 100* |
| Shadab Khan | 4 | 88 | 29.33 | 36* |
| Babar Azam | 4 | 66 | 22.00 | 46 |
| Saim Ayub | 4 | 63 | 15.75 | 24 |
| Salman Agha | 4 | 55 | 13.75 | 38 |
Pakistan – Last 5 T20 Matches
| No. | Date | Series | Ground | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 01/02/2026 | Australia | Gaddafi Stadium | Pakistan won by 111 runs |
| 2 | 07/02/2026 | Netherlands | Sinhalese Sports Club Ground | Pakistan won by 3 wickets |
| 3 | 11/02/2026 | United States | Sinhalese Sports Club Ground | Pakistan won by 32 runs |
| 4 | 15/02/2026 | India | R Premadasa Stadium | India won by 61 runs |
| 5 | 18/02/2026 | Namibia | Sinhalese Sports Club Ground | Pakistan won by 102 runs |
Team Squad
New Zealand Squad
Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Cole McConchie.
Pakistan Squad
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay.
Probable Playing XI
New Zealand:
Seifert (wk), Allen, Ravindra, Phillips, Mitchell, Chapman, Santner (c), Sodhi/Neesham, Henry, Ferguson, Duffy.
Pakistan:
Farhan, Ayub, Salman Agha (c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab, Nawaz, Faheem, Shaheen, Usman Tariq, Abrar.
New Zealand vs Pakistan Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Player | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Tim Seifert | NZ | WK |
| Finn Allen | NZ | Batter |
| Glenn Phillips | NZ | Batter |
| Babar Azam | PAK | Batter |
| Sahibzada Farhan | PAK | Batter |
| Mitchell Santner | NZ | All-rounder |
| Shadab Khan | PAK | All-rounder |
| Mohammad Nawaz | PAK | All-rounder |
| Shaheen Afridi | PAK | Bowler |
| Matt Henry | NZ | Bowler |
| Abrar Ahmed | PAK | Bowler |
This fantasy combination balances explosive top-order batters with spin-dominant bowlers suited to Colombo conditions. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen maximize early scoring potential in the powerplay. Glenn Phillips is a high-impact pick capable of rapid scoring and part-time bowling if required. Babar Azam offers stability and consistency, making him a safe points accumulator. Sahibzada Farhan’s aggressive style gives high upside.
All-rounders are critical in fantasy T20 contests. Mitchell Santner and Shadab Khan provide dual contributions — both can control middle overs and add late runs. Mohammad Nawaz strengthens the spin core and can chip in with finishing runs.
Shaheen Afridi remains a wicket-taking threat in the powerplay, while Matt Henry’s accuracy and Abrar Ahmed’s mystery spin enhance wicket potential in middle overs.
Captain Options: Glenn Phillips, Shadab Khan
Vice-Captain Options: Tim Seifert, Babar Azam
Players to Avoid: Faheem Ashraf (limited bowling overs), Jacob Duffy (may struggle on spin-friendly surface).
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team in Today’s Match – Why?
New Zealand national cricket team enter this clash as slight favorites due to their balanced lineup and adaptability on slow surfaces. While Pakistan possess strong spin options, New Zealand’s batting unit has shown better flexibility against both pace and spin during this tournament cycle. Their aggressive powerplay approach, combined with middle-order finishers like Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell, gives them multiple ways to control the tempo.
New Zealand also hold a marginal edge in overall stability under pressure. Their bowling attack, led by Mitchell Santner’s spin control and Matt Henry’s early breakthroughs, suits Colombo’s conditions well.
Why New Zealand are favorites:
- Strong powerplay run rate (10+ in tournament).
- Multiple spin-playing batters in top six.
- Balanced pace + spin bowling attack.
- Better middle-order finishing depth.
Pakistan remain dangerous, but NZ’s all-round structure gives them the edge.
New Zealand T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 255 | 132 | 111 | 11 | 0 |
New Zealand have been consistent ICC contenders, regularly reaching knockout stages with a balanced T20 setup.
Pakistan T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 296 | 173 | 116 | 7 | 0 |
Pakistan are one of the most successful T20 sides globally, known for their strong bowling legacy.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | NZ Won | PAK Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 49 | 23 | 24 | 2 |
The rivalry is extremely tight. Pakistan lead narrowly 24-23, with two no-results. In ICC T20 World Cups, Pakistan hold a stronger record (5-2), making this matchup historically competitive and evenly balanced.
New Zealand vs Pakistan – Last 5 T20 Matches
| No. | Date | Series | Ground | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 16/03/2025 | Pakistan | Hagley Oval | New Zealand won by 9 wickets |
| 2 | 18/03/2025 | Pakistan | University Oval | New Zealand won by 5 wickets |
| 3 | 21/03/2025 | Pakistan | Eden Park | Pakistan won by 9 wickets |
| 4 | 23/03/2025 | Pakistan | Bay Oval | New Zealand won by 115 runs |
| 5 | 26/03/2025 | Pakistan | Sky Stadium | New Zealand won by 8 wickets |
Pitch Report
The surface at R. Premadasa Stadium is traditionally slow and low, heavily favoring spin bowlers. Batters must rely on timing rather than power, as the ball tends to grip and hold in the surface. Scores between 155–170 are competitive here, particularly in night games where humidity can slow the outfield slightly. Spinners dominate the middle overs, and teams often deploy multiple slow-bowling options. Winning the powerplay battle becomes crucial, as scoring becomes harder once spin is introduced. Expect a tactical contest with calculated stroke play rather than pure power-hitting.
R. Premadasa Stadium – Statistical Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 53 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 23 (43.40%) |
| Matches Won Batting Second | 29 (54.72%) |
| Matches Won Winning Toss | 26 (49.06%) |
| Matches Won Losing Toss | 26 (49.06%) |
| Matches Tied | 0 (0.00%) |
| Matches with No Result | 1 (1.89%) |
| Highest Individual Innings | 99* – L J Wright (England) vs Afghanistan (21/09/2012) |
| Best Bowling Figures | 4/9 – Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) vs India (29/07/2021) |
| Highest Team Innings | 215/5 – Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka (10/03/2018) |
| Lowest Team Innings | 80 – Afghanistan vs England (21/09/2012) |
| 80 – India vs England (23/09/2012) | |
| Highest Successful Run Chase | 215/5 – Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka (10/03/2018) |
| Average Runs per Wicket | 22.40 |
| Average Runs per Over | 7.64 |
| Average Score Batting First | 152 |
Last 5 T20I Matches at R. Premadasa Stadium
| Date | Team 1 | Team 2 | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/02/2026 | Sri Lanka | Ireland | Sri Lanka won by 20 runs |
| 11/02/2026 | Australia | Ireland | Australia won by 67 runs |
| 13/02/2026 | Australia | Zimbabwe | Zimbabwe won by 23 runs |
| 15/02/2026 | India | Pakistan | India won by 61 runs |
| 19/02/2026 | Sri Lanka | Zimbabwe | Zimbabwe won by 6 wickets |
Weather Report (Match Day – Colombo)
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 30°C High / 24°C Low |
| Current | Cloudy |
| Rain Probability | Moderate chance of afternoon showers |
| Humidity | High (Typical Colombo conditions) |
| Wind | Light breeze |
Colombo is expected to remain mostly cloudy with a slight chance of rain in the afternoon. Humidity levels will be high, which may assist swing bowlers early on. If showers interrupt, DLS could become a factor. However, a full 20-over contest is still likely unless heavy rain develops.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on JioHotstar (Digital Streaming) and the Star Sports Network (Television) in India. International viewers can check local sports broadcasters for coverage. Live scores, commentary, and ball-by-ball updates will also be available across major cricket platforms. Fans can stream the match in HD via mobile and smart TV applications.
Toss Prediction
At R. Premadasa Stadium, chasing has historically been preferred due to evening humidity and potential dew. With rain forecast in patches, captains may prefer bowling first to adjust targets under DLS if needed. Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack might prefer defending, but overall conditions favor chasing.
Toss Winner Prediction: Pakistan
Decision: Bowl First
Probable Batsman & Bowler
For New Zealand national cricket team, Tim Seifert looks the most probable top scorer. His aggressive powerplay intent and strong strike rate make him crucial on a slowing pitch. Glenn Phillips is another strong contender, especially against spin in middle overs.
From Pakistan national cricket team, Sahibzada Farhan has shown dominant form and could anchor the innings. Babar Azam remains the stability factor if early wickets fall.
On the bowling front, Mitchell Santner is expected to be New Zealand’s key wicket-taker due to spin-friendly conditions. For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed or Usman Tariq could exploit the sluggish surface and trouble NZ’s middle order.
New Zealand vs Pakistan Winning Chances
| Team | Winning % | Why They Can Win | Why They May Lose |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 75% | Balanced attack, strong powerplay scoring, good spin players | Vulnerable if early wickets fall vs spin |
| Pakistan | 25% | Spin dominance, strong middle-order hitters | Inconsistent batting under pressure |
New Zealand hold a stronger overall balance, while Pakistan rely heavily on spin success.
Match Prediction
This contest promises to be tightly fought given the historic rivalry. However, New Zealand’s adaptability against spin and better top-order momentum give them the upper hand on this Colombo surface. If they manage Pakistan’s middle overs efficiently, they should control the game.
Predicted Winner: New Zealand Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – NZ vs PAK 41st Match, Super 8 Group 2 T20
When and where is the New Zealand vs Pakistan match being played?
The 41st Match, Super 8 Group 2 of the T20 World Cup 2026 between New Zealand and Pakistan will be played at R. Premadasa Stadium on Saturday, 21st February 2026.
What time does the NZ vs PAK match start?
The match is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM local time in Colombo. Toss will take place approximately 30 minutes before the start.
What is the pitch condition at R. Premadasa Stadium?
The Colombo surface is generally slow and assists spin bowlers. Batters must settle in before playing aggressive strokes. Scores between 150–170 are considered competitive.
Who has a better head-to-head record in T20Is?
Pakistan slightly edge the rivalry in overall T20 meetings, but the margin is very narrow, making this one of the most evenly matched contests in international cricket.
Who are the key players for New Zealand?
Tim Seifert, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner are crucial. Santner’s left-arm spin could be decisive on a turning pitch.
Who are the key players for Pakistan?
Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, and Abrar Ahmed are vital. Pakistan’s spin trio often dictates the game in middle overs.
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