New Zealand is set to take on the co-hosts Sri Lanka in a blockbuster Super 8 encounter of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The match will be played at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on February 25.
The encounter will be crucial in New Zealand’s semifinal chances, after their opening game in the Super 8 versus Pakistan was called off due to rain. The Kiwis will head into this contest with two points in mind.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, are coming off after a disappointing loss to England. After restricting the English side for a mere 146, they failed to chase down the target, eventually losing the match by 51 runs. So, a win against New Zealand is a must for the Lankans.
Here are the top 3 player battles to watch out for in NZ vs SL, T20 WC 2026
3. Lockie Ferguson vs Pathum Nissanka
This will be the battle of the powerplays that will decide which team will take a better start in this contest. The Kiwi speedster Ferguson will go up against Pathum Nissanka, who has been brilliant for the Lankans throughout the tournament and is the third-highest run scorer of the tournament so far. The right-hander will look to give his side a blazing start, while Lockie certainly has the ability to stop him.
| Matches | Innings | Runs Scored | Balls Bowled | Strike Rate | Economy Rate | Wicket Taken |
| 02 | 02 | 7 | 9 | 77.77 | 04.66 | 00 |
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