England secured a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in their final Super Eight match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo. Chasing 160, England overcame early setbacks to win with 3.3 overs remaining. The result leaves New Zealand's semi-final hopes dependent on another match.
The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 reached its Super Eight stage with England facing New Zealand in Colombo on Friday. Already qualified for the semi-finals, England delivered a resilient performance to claim their third consecutive win in the group.
New Zealand batted first and posted 159 for 7 in 20 overs. England's spinners dominated, bowling 16 overs of spin—the most in their T20I history—and taking all seven wickets. Adil Rashid finished with 2 for 28, Will Jacks claimed 2 for 23, Rehan Ahmed took 2 for 28 on his World Cup debut, and Liam Dawson dismissed Daryl Mitchell.
New Zealand's innings started strongly with openers Finn Allen (29) and Tim Seifert (35) racing to 54 without loss in the powerplay. Despite wickets falling in clusters, Glenn Phillips top-scored with 39 off 28 balls, partnering with Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman to steady the middle order.
In reply, England struggled early, slumping to 58 for 4 after losing Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Harry Brook, and Jacob Bethell cheaply. Matt Henry struck in his first over, and Lockie Ferguson removed Buttler, while Phillips contributed with a catch and a run-out.
England's lower order fought back. Tom Banton scored 33, Sam Curran made 24, and Jacks played a match-winning 32 not out off 18 balls, including four fours and a six. Rehan Ahmed added a quick 19 off 7 balls with two sixes and a four. Jacks' 22 runs off Phillips in the 18th over shifted momentum, guiding England to 160 for 6 in 19.3 overs.
Will Jacks earned player of the match for his all-round contribution. New Zealand's semi-final qualification now hinges on the outcome of Pakistan's match against Sri Lanka on Saturday.
