Colombo: New Zealand Beats Sri Lanka by 61 Runs in ICC T20 World Cup Super 8s

In the Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 61 runs. With this loss, Sri Lanka is out of the tournament, making Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals more difficult.

The Group 2 situation has become very interesting and complex. On the points table, New Zealand has 3 points with a net run rate of 3.05, while Pakistan has a negative run rate of -0.46.

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Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals now depend on New Zealand’s result against England. 

If New Zealand loses to England, Pakistan’s chances remain alive, but Pakistan would then need to win against Sri Lanka by a large margin to improve their net run rate.

However, if New Zealand defeats England, Pakistan will be eliminated from semi-final contention. 

England has already qualified for the semi-finals from the group. The remaining competition between Pakistan and New Zealand will determine who secures the second semi-final spot.