New Zealand middle-order batter Mark Chapman banked on the familiarity factor to tame the mystery spinner Usman Tariq-led Pakistan bowling unit in their T20 World Cup Group 2 Super 8 match on Saturday.

Former Indian cricketers have predicted the semi-finalists of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 ahead of the start of the Super 8, which will commence on Saturday with Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

The New Zealand middle-order's ability to mount a strong response when faced with the guile and variety in Pakistan's spin unit will be the deciding factor when the two sides face each other in the opening Super 8 Group 2 match of the T20 World Cup on Saturday.

Despite being eliminated in the group stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, Australia have already secured qualification for the 2028 edition.

Chasing 174, New Zealand rode on Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips' stand that came off just 73 balls, overhauling the target in 15.1 overs.

Samra smashed six sixes and 11 fours in his 65-ball knock, taking full advantage of a depleted New Zealand attack.

Captain Aiden Markam's unbeaten 86 and 4-40 by Marco Jansen led South Africa to a seven-wicket thrashing of New Zealand on Saturday to all but book their Super Eights berth at the T20 World Cup.

New Zealand vs South Africa Highlights, T20 World Cup 2026: South Africa rode on skipper Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen's batting and bowling exploits to beat New Zealand by seven wickets.

Calling contests against South Africa "fierce", New Zealand pacer Matt Henry on Friday said the long-standing rivalry between the two sides adds an extra dimension to their crucial T20 World Cup clash.

Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and New Zealand's Michael Bracewell were on Tuesday ruled out of the remainder of the T20 World Cup due to injuries.

Tim Seifert and Finn Allen produced a world record opening partnership of 175 runs as New Zealand thrashed the United Arab Emirates by 10 wickets.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner praised his side's composure and adaptability after the BlackCaps opened their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a five-wicket win over Afghanistan.

Tim Seifert's calm yet aggressive knock set the tone as New Zealand opened their T20 World Cup campaign with a confident five-wicket win over Afghanistan on Sunday.

Tim Seifert and Glenn Phillips starred as New Zealand recovered from a shaky start to overcome a challening target of 183 with considerable ease in their Group D opener in Chennai.

New Zealand vs Afghanistan Live Streaming, T20 World Cup 2026 Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch Live.

A total of 55 matches will take place, with 20 teams participating in the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka.

The ICC has unveiled the broadcast plans for the T20 World Cup 2026, featuring 20 teams and 55 matches, running from February 7 to March 8.

New Zealand head into the T20 World Cup as a balanced side, steady rather than spectacular, but with enough flashes of brilliance to keep them firmly in the contenders' bracket.