by The 46th match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stage will be played between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on February 25, 2026. This game holds immense importance for both sides, particularly Sri Lanka, as a defeat here will officially end their campaign in the tournament.
The Group 2 Super 8 match is set to begin at 7:00 PM IST, and a packed crowd of nearly 35,000 fans is expected at the iconic Colombo venue. With both teams fighting for survival and semi-final hopes, the match promises to be a thrilling contest.
Pitch Report for R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo (NZ vs SL T20I February 25, 2026)
The pitch at the R. Premadasa Stadium is typically bowler-friendly, especially for pacers who deliver hard-hitting lengths. Spinners also tend to get significant turn and grip on this surface, particularly during the first innings of evening matches.
As per T20I records at this venue, 64 matches have been played so far, and 36 have been won by the team batting second, which suggests that chasing may remain a favourable strategy.
Anything above 150 runs is considered a par score on this pitch. Given recent trends in the ongoing tournament, both Sri Lanka and New Zealand might prefer batting first after winning the toss to put runs on the board and apply scoreboard pressure.
Expected Playing XIs for New Zealand vs Sri Lanka
New Zealand: Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka
Rain Forecast for NZ vs SL Super 8 Match (Feb 25, 2026)
According to the weather forecast for Colombo, there is a 5% chance of rain during the match between 7:00 PM and 12:00 AM IST, which means fans can expect an uninterrupted 40-over contest.
The temperature throughout the game will hover around 27°C, while humidity levels are expected to remain between 77% and 83%, potentially making conditions uncomfortable for players. Winds will blow at a steady 14 km/h, ensuring some movement in the air for fast bowlers.
Winner Prediction and Match Odds for NZ vs SL Super 8 (Feb 25, 2026)
Based on current form, player balance, and performance consistency, here are the winning odds for both teams in the 46th match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026:
- New Zealand chances of winning: 65%
- Sri Lanka chances of winning: 35%
New Zealand are the favourites to win this crucial encounter, with their line-up looking more balanced and in better form than the home side. Sri Lanka will feel the absence of key players Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga, both of whom have been vital in previous campaigns.
If Pathum Nissanka can provide a strong start and play a quick 70–80-run knock at the top, Sri Lanka could still shift momentum in their favour. However, New Zealand’s experienced core featuring Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, and Mitchell Santner, gives them a significant advantage heading into this game.
- Our final prediction: New Zealand will win this Super 8 match.
Stay tuned for more coverage and updates on the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stage. For any queries or thoughts about this New Zealand vs Sri Lanka clash, feel free to share your comments below.
