T20 World Cup 2026: New Zealand set 169-run target for Sri Lanka in Super 8 match

Colombo (Web Desk): In a crucial Super Eight match of the T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand set a target of 169 runs for the host nation Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to field first. New Zealand started aggressively, but Sri Lanka managed to control the innings in the middle overs, reducing the Kiwis to 86 runs for 6 wickets.

However, a spectacular seventh-wicket partnership between captain Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie turned the innings around. The duo scored 84 runs off just 48 balls, taking New Zealand to a total of 168 for 7 wickets.

New Zealand’s top scorer was Mitchell Santner with 47 runs, while McConchie remained unbeaten on 31. Other contributions included Rachin Ravindra 32, Finn Allen 23, and Glenn Phillips 18.

For Sri Lanka, Maheesh Theekshana and Dushmantha Chameera claimed three wickets each, while Dhantha Viyalage picked up one.

Ahead of the match, Sri Lanka made one change to their lineup, replacing Kamal Mishra with the experienced Charith Asalanka. The Sri Lankan squad for the game included captain Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Puwan Ratnayake, Chamindu Mendis, Dhantha Viyalage, Dushan Hemanta, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dilshan Madushanka.

New Zealand’s playing XI featured captain Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ash Sudhie, and Lockie Ferguson.

This Super Eight Group 2 match is also considered crucial for Pakistan’s chances in the tournament.