The first match of the Super-8 round of the 2026 T20 World Cup has been washed out due to rain. This match between New Zealand and Pakistan was canceled without any ball being played. The toss of the match took place on time, but due to continuous rain not a single ball could be played. After waiting for about two and a half hours, the umpires declared the match cancelled.
The toss of the match between New Zealand and Pakistan took place at 6:30 pm according to Indian time. Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl. The match was to start at seven o’clock, but it started raining just minutes after the toss. After this the entire ground of R Premadasa Stadium was covered with covers. After waiting for about two and a half hours, the match referee declared the match cancelled. According to the rules, both the teams have been given one point each.
What effect will the cancellation of this match have on the equation of the semi-finals?
The cancellation of the match due to rain is a big blow for both New Zealand and Pakistan. To remain in the race for the semi-finals, both these teams will now have to win their remaining two matches at any cost. Both the teams have to face England and Sri Lanka in the Super-8. Pakistan now has to face England on Tuesday, 24 February in Pallekele. After this, Pakistan’s match will be against Sri Lanka on 28th February. This match will also be played in Pallekele only. Talking about New Zealand, the Kiwi team will now face Sri Lanka on February 25 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Where today’s match has been canceled due to rain. After this, on February 27, the match between England and New Zealand will also be held at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
For your information, let us tell you that ICC has not kept a reserve day in case of rain even in the Super-8 stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Earlier, reserve day was not kept even in the league stage. ICC has kept one day as a reserve day for the semi-finals and final.