New Zealand'S T20 World Cup Hopes Depend On Pakistan-Sri Lanka Match

In a dramatic turn of events during the T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand's hopes of advancing to the semifinals now hinge on the outcome of the upcoming match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Following their recent defeat to England, where they lost by four wickets, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner expressed the team's anxiety, stating, "We're pretty nervous" as they await the result that could determine their fate. The match against England saw New Zealand set a target of 160 runs, but they faltered in the final overs, allowing England to chase down the score with a late blitz from Rehan Ahmed and Will Jacks, who turned the game around in the 18th over, needing 43 runs off 18 balls before finishing with 21 needed off 12. Jacks noted, "That six pretty much won us the game," highlighting the critical moments that shifted the match's momentum (Pakistan News Network, February 28, 2026; The Guardian, February 27, 2026).