The match between Pakistan and New Zealand, which was supposed to be the opening match of the Super Eights, was called off due to persistent rain in Colombo.
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Published February 21, 2026
The Super Eights match between Pakistan and New Zealand to begin the second phase of the 2026 T20 World Cup was called off due to no ball being bowled due to rain.
On Saturday, the moment Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to bat first, rain began to fall at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium.
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The interviews after the toss were over, but with predictions that the game would be in jeopardy, there was little surprise when the team came to their aid.
More than 60 grounds staff were on hand to cover most of the square and playing surface.
Due to continued rain, the referee finally called off the Group 2 match at 9:05 pm local time (15:35 pm Japan time).
By the closing time of 10:16pm (16:46 GMT), not even five overs had been played and both teams were awarded one point each.
Tournament co-hosts India will play South Africa in Ahmedabad in the first Group 1 match on Sunday, while co-hosts Sri Lanka and England will face off in Palekele in Group 2.

