Win or bust for Sri Lanka national cricket team.
Opportunity and control for New Zealand national cricket team.
The Super 8 race heats up as Sri Lanka take on New Zealand at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium on February 25, 2026 — a clash that could decide the fate of Group 2.
Sri Lanka are staring at elimination after a heavy defeat to England. Another loss and their semi-final hopes are officially over.
New Zealand, meanwhile, come in fresh after their match against Pakistan was washed out. The Black Caps have had time to regroup — and they’ll look to spoil the Khettarama party.
Two points here are massive.
SL vs NZ Match Details
- Match: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, Super 8, Group 2
- Date: February 25, 2026
- Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
- Start Time: 7:00 PM IST
- Toss Time: 6:30 PM IST
Super 8 Scenario
- Sri Lanka must win to stay alive.
- New Zealand can strengthen their semi-final push.
- Net Run Rate could become decisive.
Pressure is entirely on the hosts.
SL vs NZ Pitch Report – R. Premadasa Stadium
Colombo traditionally offers:
- Dry surface
- Assistance for spinners
- Slower middle overs
- Competitive first-innings score around 165–175
Batting becomes tricky once the ball grips. Expect spin to dominate.
Sri Lanka’s spin trio could enjoy these conditions.
Weather Report – Colombo
- Warm and humid (30–31°C)
- Scattered thunderstorms possible
- Moderate rain risk
- Cloud cover expected
Weather interruptions cannot be ruled out.
Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
- Total Matches: 25
- New Zealand Wins: 16
- Sri Lanka Wins: 9
Even in Sri Lanka, New Zealand hold a slight edge.
Recent Form
Sri Lanka: LLWWW
Lost heavily to England in Super 8 opener.
New Zealand: WLWWL
Super 8 opener vs Pakistan washed out.
Key Players To Watch
Sri Lanka
- Kusal Mendis – Needs a captain’s knock under pressure
- Maheesh Theekshana – Powerplay spin weapon
- Dunith Wellalage – All-round impact on spin-friendly track
New Zealand
- Tim Seifert – Aggressive opener
- Rachin Ravindra – Calm and adaptable
- Mitchell Santner – Captain and spin threat
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka
New Zealand
Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi
Live Streaming Details
TV Broadcast (India): Star Sports Network
Online Streaming: Jio Hotstar app & website
Tactical Battle
- Sri Lanka spinners vs NZ middle order
- Can Santner outfox Lankan batters on their own turf?
- Will Sri Lanka handle pressure better this time?
The Powerplay could decide the momentum.
Match Prediction
Sri Lanka have home advantage and spin-friendly conditions. But New Zealand are more composed and tactically flexible.
If Sri Lanka bat first and collapse again, it’s over.
If they strike early with spin, game on.
Expect a tense, low-to-mid scoring thriller.
When will Sri Lanka vs New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 match be played?
The match will be played on February 25, 2026.
What time does SL vs NZ match start?
The match starts at 7:00 PM IST, while the toss will take place at 6:30 PM IST.
Where will the Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Super 8 match be held?
The match will be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
Which TV channel will broadcast SL vs NZ in India?
The match will be telecast live on Star Sports Network.
How to watch Sri Lanka vs New Zealand live streaming online?
Fans can watch the live streaming on the Jio Hotstar app and website.
What is the pitch report for R. Premadasa Stadium?
The pitch generally supports spinners and slows down as the match progresses. A score of 165–175 can be competitive.
Will rain affect the SL vs NZ match?
There is a possibility of scattered thunderstorms, but a full match is still expected.
What is the head-to-head record between Sri Lanka and New Zealand in T20Is?
Out of 25 T20Is, New Zealand have won 16 matches, while Sri Lanka have won 9.
Who are the key players to watch in SL vs NZ?
Sri Lanka: Kusal Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana
New Zealand: Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner
Is this a must-win match for Sri Lanka?
Yes, Sri Lanka must win to stay alive in the Super 8 semi-final race.
