Match 12 of IPL 2026 will feature Kolkata Knight Riders facing Punjab Kings at their home ground, Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Monday, 6th April. Last season's runner-up, Punjab Kings, started this season strongly, winning both their matches and currently holding the third position in the points table with four points. They won their last match by five wickets against Chennai Super Kings, successfully chasing a target of 210 runs. Captain Shreyas Iyer struck a half-century in the last match and looked in fine touch.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders have had a tough start to this season, losing both matches and currently occupying the lower half of the points table. In the last match, they failed to chase down the target of 227 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Kolkata's major issue is Cameron Green's form with the bat and his not being bowling fit. Punjab head into this contest with greater confidence and aim to extend their winning streak. They have also defeated KKR in three of their last four matches.

Also Read: IPL 2026, Match 12: KKR vs PBKS weather report, stadium stats and predicted playing XIs

KKR vs PBKS Match Details 

• Match: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings, 12th Match

• Date: 6th April 2026

• Time: 7:30 PM IST

• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

KKR vs PBKS Weather Report

Pitch Report - Eden Gardens

Eden Gardens pitch in Kolkata is considered one of the best for batting because of its fast outfield, which makes scoring runs effortless. A flat pitch with true bounce allows batsmen to dominate.

• Win Batting First: 43%

• Win Bowling First: 57%

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 170

• Average 2nd Innings: 155

KKR vs PBKS Recent Form

KKR vs PBKS Head-to-Head Record (Last 10 matches)

• KKR Wins - 5

• PBKS Wins - 5

Top Batters to Watch – KKR vs PBKS

• Cooper Connolly (PBKS): 108 runs in this tournament 

• Angkrish Raghuvanshi (KKR): 103 runs in this tournament 

• Prabhsimran Singh (PBKS): 80 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – KKR vs PBKS

• Vijaykumar Vyshak (PBKS): 5 wickets in this tournament 

• Blessing Muzarabani (KKR): 4 wickets in this tournament 

• Yuzvendra Chahal (PBKS): 3 wickets in this tournament 

KKR vs PBKS Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If KKR bats first

• Powerplay Score: 55–60

• Predicted Total: 180–200

• Match Result: PBKS to win

Scenario 2: If PBKS bats first

• Powerplay Score: 55–65

• Predicted Total: 190–210

• Match Result: PBKS to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

KKR vs PBKS Predicted Playing XIs

Kolkata Knight Riders  

Ajinkya Rahane(c), Cameron Green, Angkrish Raghuvanshi(w), Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Anukul Roy, Sunil Narine, Varun Chakaravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi, Blessing Muzarabani Impact Subs: Finn Allen

Punjab Kings 

Prabhsimran Singh(w), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Impact subs: Priyansh Arya

Why Punjab Kings is the favourite

• Shreyas Iyer’s recent form 

• Chase 200+ target in the last match against CSK 

• Excellent bowling unit

KKR vs PBKS Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, Punjab Kings is the favourite to win this IPL 2026 match. Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer and Priyansh Arya are expected to be the key performers.

Prediction: Punjab Kings to win

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will host Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the sixth match of IPL 2026 at the iconic Eden Gardens on Thursday, 2nd April. Both Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad experienced a challenging start to the tournament, losing their opening matches and currently sitting in the lower half of the points table. Hyderabad lost their initial game by six wickets against Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Similarly, Kolkata Knight Riders lost their first match by six wickets against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede. Kolkata batted first and scored a strong total of 220 runs in 20 overs. Captain Ajinkya Rahane scored a brilliant 67 runs off 47 balls, but their bowling unit was unable to defend the target, and the opponents chased it down in 19.1 overs. Finn Allen looked in good touch in his first IPL match and will look to carry that momentum into this game. In the last 5 seasons, KKR have won 8 matches vs SRH.

Also Read: IPL 2026, Match 6: KKR vs SRH weather report, stadium stats and predicted playing XIs

KKR vs SRH Match Details 

• Match: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, 6th Match

• Date: 2nd April 2026

• Time: 7:30 PM IST

• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata 

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

KKR vs SRH Weather Report

Pitch Report - Eden Gardens

The pitch at Eden Gardens, Kolkata for the IPL 2026 is generally designed to be batting-friendly, with true bounce and even pace, allowing batters to play their shots without any obstruction restrictions. The chasing team have a good record in Eden Gardens, emerging victorious in 57 out of 100 IPL matches.

• Win Batting First: 42%

• Win Bowling First: 58%

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 170

• Average 2nd Innings: 160

KKR vs SRH Recent Form

KKR vs SRH Head-to-Head Record (Last 10 matches)

• KKR Wins - 7

• SRH Wins - 3

Top Batters to Watch – KKR vs SRH

• Ajinkya Rahane (KKR): 67 runs in this tournament 

• Ishan Kishan (SRH): 80 runs in this tournament 

• Angkrish Raghuvanshi (KKR): 51 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – KKR vs SRH

• David Payne (SRH): 2 wickets in this tournament 

• Jaydev Unadkat (SRH): 1 wicket in this tournament 

• Vaibhav Arora (KKR): 1 wicket in this tournament 

KKR vs SRH Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If KKR bats first

• Powerplay Score: 55–65

• Predicted Total: 175–190

• Match Result: SRH to win

Scenario 2: If SRH bats first

• Powerplay Score: 50–65

• Predicted Total: 195–210

• Match Result: SRH to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

KKR vs SRH Predicted Playing XIs

Kolkata Knight Riders 

Ajinkya Rahane (c), Finn Allen, Cameron Green, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Anukul Roy, Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Blessing Muzarabani.

Sunrisers Hyderabad 

Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (c & wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Aniket Verma, Harsh Dubey, Harshal Patel, Jaydev Unadkat, Eshan Malinga, Salil Arora.

Why Sunrisers Hyderabad is the favourite

• Explosive opener 

• Reliable middle-order

• Good pace bowlers 

KKR vs SRH Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, Sunrisers Hyderabad is the favourite to win this IPL 2026 match. Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan are expected to be the key performers.

Prediction: Sunrisers Hyderabad to win

Ajinkya Rahane, captain of Kolkata Knight Riders, made an impressive start to the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium. Facing the Mumbai Indians, he scored a quick half-century in just 27 balls. His innings included elegant strokes and five sixes, helping his team gain early control.

Hardik Pandya struggled with the ball, as Rahane and Finn Allen attacked him in one over, scoring 25 runs and putting the Mumbai Indians under pressure.

In a tactical change this season, Rahane opened the innings alongside Finn Allen. Playing at his home ground, the experienced batter looked confident and used the pace of the bowlers effectively to build momentum early in the match.

Watch Ajinkya Rahane’s stunning half-century here:

If Ajinkya Rahane can bat with more than 200 + SR in T20 Format, that's clear wankhede stadium pitch was totally dead

ICC brought both pitch conditions in the T20 WC , where teams scored 180 and won. Here, KKR would have to score 250 to win vs MIpic.twitter.com/5P06eNUD0W

— Indian Cricket Netwrk (@Dilkesh1807) March 29, 2026

Breathing fire up top! 🎆

🎥 Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen struck them sweetly during a blistering stand 👌

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/JmJcgsoHQ7#TATAIPL | #KhelBindaas | #MIvKKR | @KKRiders pic.twitter.com/CWYrUPvhNZ

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 29, 2026

Ajinkya Rahane anchors innings with classy fifty

The KKR skipper made a confident start, hitting a six over mid-wicket off Trent Boult to get off the mark. He continued his attacking approach and, along with Finn Allen, made full use of the power play. The duo added a half-century partnership in just four overs, giving Kolkata Knight Riders a strong start.

This was Rahane’s sixth half-century against the Mumbai Indians in IPL history. Notably, he has never lost a match against MI after scoring a fifty, which is a positive sign for his team.

Rahane scored an impressive 67 runs off 40 balls, including three boundaries and five sixes. His innings laid a solid foundation for the purple brigade, as they looked to put Mumbai Indians under pressure and take control of the match.

See also -Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara Left Out of Duleep Trophy Squad

Rahane’s knock puts pressure on the Mumbai Indians bowlers

The former Indian skipper’s fluent and attacking innings put the Mumbai Indians bowlers under significant pressure in their Indian Premier League 2026 clash. His positive intent during the power play, combined with strong support from Finn Allen, allowed Kolkata Knight Riders to seize early momentum. Rahane’s ability to find boundaries regularly disrupted MI’s bowling plans, forcing frequent changes in strategy. Despite their efforts, the bowlers struggled to control the scoring rate, as KKR maintained dominance and built a solid foundation in the early stages of the match.

Fans react to Rahane’s elegant batting display

Fans praised Ajinkya Rahane for his classy and calm batting in the Indian Premier League 2026 match. Many people on social media said his shots looked smooth and easy to watch. Some fans also said that Rahane showed his experience and played like a true leader for the Kolkata Knight Riders. His quick half-century impressed both fans and experts. Many users shared clips of his shots and praised his timing. Overall, fans enjoyed his innings and felt it was one of the best performances in the match.

Here is how the fans reacted to Rahane's innings:

SHARDUL THAKUR HAS TAKEN HIS 2ND WICKETS NOW.

- First Allen and now Green.

— ADAMS (@GSNetwork_01) March 29, 2026

Rahane + Allen = fireworks in the powerplay 💥🏏 #IPL2026

— Ankit Rai (@ankitra75207810) March 29, 2026

pic.twitter.com/lDhKqV4i2O

— Anna (@BingeBytes) March 29, 2026

#Dhurandhar2‌TheRevenge has made this IPL and Joke. Only after 2 weeks people will start looking in to matches in IPL.

— Geopolitical Hindu (@GlobalHindu2020) March 29, 2026

Classy rahane 💜💜

— BALA 🧊🔥 (@Bala_tweets_17_) March 29, 2026

The Men in Blue will face New Zealand in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Narendra Modi Stadium. The Indian team secured their place in the final by defeating England by 7 runs in the second semi-final. Batting first, they set a formidable target of 253 runs in 20 overs. Indian opening batsman Sanju Samson played an excellent innings of 89 runs off 42 balls, while Shivam Dube scored 43 runs off 25 balls, and all-rounder Hardik Pandya contributed 27 runs off just 12 balls. Adil Rashid and Will Jacks picked up two wickets each for England. While chasing the target, England managed to score 246 runs in 20 overs and lost the match by seven runs.

On the other hand, New Zealand secured their place in the final by defeating South Africa by 9 wickets in the first semi-final. New Zealand chased down the target of 170 runs in just 12.5 overs. Opening batsman Finn Allen played a brilliant innings, scoring 100 runs off just 33 balls, including 10 fours and 8 sixes, and played a crucial role in helping his team secure the victory.

Also Read: ENG vs IND Dream11 Prediction Today: 2nd Semi-Final, Pitch Report, Playing XI & Fantasy Tips

India vs New Zealand Match Details

• Match: New Zealand vs India, Final

• Date: 8th March 2026

• Time: 7:00 PM IST

• Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

NZ vs IND Weather Report

Pitch Report - Narendra Modi Stadium

The surface at Narendra Modi Stadium provided an advantage to stroke play, particularly during night matches, and the teams chasing have had better conditions as the evening goes on. 

• Win Batting First: 62%

• Win Bowling First: 38%

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 188

• Average 2nd Innings: 159

NZ vs IND Recent Form

NZ vs IND Head-to-Head Record (T20I)

• NZ Wins - 11

• IND Wins - 18

Top Batters to Watch – NZ vs IND

• Finn Allen (NZ): 289 runs in this tournament 

• Tim Seifert (NZ): 274 runs in this tournament 

• Ishan Kishan (IND): 263 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – NZ vs IND

• Varun Chakravarthy (IND): 13 wickets in this tournament 

• Adil Rashid (NZ): 11 wickets in this tournament 

• Rachin Ravindra (NZ): 11 wickets in this tournament 

NZ vs IND Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If NZ bats first

• Powerplay Score: 50–60

• Predicted Total: 170–175

• Match Result: IND to win

Scenario 2: If IND bats first

• Powerplay Score: 55–70

• Predicted Total: 180–200

• Match Result: IND to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

NZ vs IND Predicted Playing XIs

India

Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy/Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

New Zealand 

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson 

Why India is the favourite

• Home conditions benefits 

• Strong middle-order 

• Good pace attack

India vs New Zealand – Key Match Facts

• No host nation has ever won the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

• No team has secured consecutive titles in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup history.

• The Indian team has yet to defeat New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup.

• The New Zealand team has won two ICC trophies, both against India.

• The Indian team has lost only two ICC matches in the last four years, both at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

NZ vs IND Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, India are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Final. Jasprit Bumrah, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan are expected to be the key performers.

Winning chances

IND: 55%

NZ: 45%

NZ vs IND Match FAQs

Q1. Where can I watch the NZ vs IND live match?

You can watch the live streaming on the JioHotstar 

Q2. Who will win today’s NZ vs IND match?

According to today's match prediction, India are the favourites to win this encounter.

Q3. What time will the NZ vs IND match start?

The match begins at 7:00 PM IST 

England’s Jacob Bethell scored the second-fastest hundred in T20 World Cups during the semifinal against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday.

The youngster lit up the Wankhede Stadium with a sensational 45-ball century. He reached the milestone with a six off Hardik Pandya. However, his effort went in vain as England lost the match by seven runs and crashed out of the tournament. Bethell scored 105 off 48 balls, hitting eight fours and seven sixes, but England could only reach 246 for seven in 20 overs.

Bethell’s hundred is also the second century in a knockout match in T20 World Cup history, after Finn Allen, who scored a century against South Africa in Kolkata earlier in the tournament.

With England needing 30 runs in the final over, Bethell was run out at the striker’s end while trying to take a second run to keep the strike. His dismissal ended England’s hopes of winning the match.

Jacob Bethell smashes the second-fastest century in a men's #T20WorldCup to keep England in the hunt against India🙌

It is one of the @marriottbonvoy Milestones of the #T20WorldCup

📝: https://t.co/w7G9C2FaMw pic.twitter.com/0PaWvNZa0G

— ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2026

Here is the complete list of the fastest hundreds in T20 World Cup history

Also read -List of fastest T20I centuries among full member nations ft. Finn Allen

1. Finn Allen vs South Africa, Kolkata 2026 (33 balls)

After restricting South Africa to 169/8 in 20 overs on March 4, New Zealand’s bowlers set up the match perfectly. Then it became the Finn Allen show. Allen smashed the fastest T20I century between two Full Member teams, reaching his hundred in just 33 balls during the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final. Allen and Tim Seifert gave New Zealand a flying start. The pair took the team to 84/0 in the six-over powerplay. Seifert scored 58 before getting out, after which Rachin Ravindra joined Allen at the crease. The Kiwi opener completed his third T20I century in just 33 balls and finished the chase in style. New Zealand reached 173/1 in 12.5 overs to seal a big win and book their place in the final.

2. Jacob Bethell vs India, Mumbai 2026 (45 balls)

England’s Jacob Bethell played a brilliant innings to keep England in the chase at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Chasing a huge target of 254, the 21-year-old scored his maiden T20I century against a strong Indian bowling attack. Bethell reached his hundred in just 45 balls with a six off Hardik Pandya. It became the second-fastest century in T20 World Cup history. However, his effort was not enough. With England needing 30 runs in the final over, Bethell was run out while trying to take a second run. His dismissal ended England’s hopes of winning the match.

3. Chris Gayle vs England, Mumbai 2016 (47 balls)

Chris Gayle played a powerful innings against England in the 2016 T20 World Cup in Mumbai. His unbeaten century helped West Indies win the match by six wickets. Gayle reached his hundred in 47 balls and smashed 11 sixes during the innings. This was the joint-third fastest century in T20 internationals at that time. He also became the first player to score two centuries in T20 World Cup history. West Indies chased the target of 183 with 11 balls remaining. Gayle’s innings proved that England’s total was not enough.

4. Chris Gayle vs South Africa, Johannesburg 2007 (50 balls)

Chris Gayle made history in the first match of the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. Playing against South Africa in Johannesburg, he scored a brilliant 117 runs from 57 balls. Gayle reached his century in just 50 balls and became the first player to score a hundred in T20 internationals. He also shared a 145-run opening partnership with Devon Smith. West Indies scored 205/6 in 20 overs. However, South Africa, inspired by Herschelle Gibbs, chased the target and won the match.

5. Harry Brook vs Pakistan, Pallekele 2026 (50 balls)

England captain Harry Brook played a match-winning innings against Pakistan in the Super 8 stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup. England were chasing 167 in an important match at the Pallekele International Stadium. Brook came to bat early and scored a brilliant century in 51 balls. He reached his hundred in just 50 deliveries. He hit 10 boundaries and four sixes during the innings. Brook also became the first captain in T20 World Cup history to score a century. His performance helped England win the match by two wickets.

South Africa will take on New Zealand in the 1st Semi-Final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens. South Africa had a very good tournament. They remain undefeated, winning all three of their group matches and then all their Super 8 matches to reach the semi-finals. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton have been in outstanding form with the bat, and Lungi Ngidi's bowling has been excellent. The African team defeated Zimbabwe by 5 wickets in their last match. Chasing 154, they reached the target in 17.5 overs.

New Zealand, on the other hand, won one match and lost one in the Super 8, with one match abandoned due to rain. Both New Zealand and Pakistan have 3 points, but New Zealand qualified for the semi-finals due to a better run rate. New Zealand lost their previous match to England by four wickets.

Also Read: 'Ye team badla lene aayi hai...' - Fans react as South Africa stay unbeaten with 5 wicket win vs Zimbabwe in T20 World Cup 2026

SA vs NZ Match Details

• Match: South Africa vs New Zealand, 1st Semi-Final

• Date: 4th March 2026

• Time: 7:00 PM IST

• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

SA vs NZ Weather Report

Pitch Report - Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Eden Gardens has a flat surface and deep boundaries that balance out the game between the bat and the ball. The flat wicket allows batsmen to play on the up. Teams batting first have won the last four out of six games at the venue

• Win Batting First: 50%

• Win Bowling First: 50%

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 164

• Average 2nd Innings: 141

SA vs NZ Recent Form

SA vs NZ Head-to-Head Record (T20I)

• NZ Wins - 7

• SA Wins - 12

Top Batters to Watch – SA vs NZ

• Aiden Markram (SA): 268 runs in this tournament 

• Ryan Rickelton (SA): 228 runs in this tournament 

• Tim Seifert (NZ): 216 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – SA vs NZ

• Corbin Bosch (SA): 11 wickets in this tournament 

• Lungi Ngidi (SA): 12 wickets in this tournament 

• Marco Jansen (SA): 11 wickets in this tournament 

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If NZ bats first

• Powerplay Score: 45–60

• Predicted Total: 170–175

• Match Result: SA to win

Scenario 2: If SA bats first

• Powerplay Score: 55–65

• Predicted Total: 175–190

• Match Result: SA to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

SA vs NZ Predicted Playing XIs

New Zealand 

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

South Africa 

Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi 

Why South Africa is the favourite

• In-form top-order

• Excellent pace attack

• Lungi Ngidi's recent form

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, South Africa are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Corbin Bosch, Lungi Ngidi and Aiden Markram are expected to be the key performers.

Winning chances

SA: 55%

NZ: 45%

SA vs NZ Match FAQs

Q1. Where can I watch the SA vs NZ live match?

You can watch the live streaming on the JioHotstar 

Q2. Who will win today’s SA vs NZ match?

According to our today's match prediction, South Africa are the favourites to win this encounter.

Q3. What time will the SA vs NZ match start?

The match begins at 7:00 PM IST 

England will face New Zealand in the 49th match of the Super 8 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. England's performance in the Super 8 has been impressive, and they have already qualified for the semi-finals. They defeated Pakistan by two wickets in their previous match, successfully chasing down the target of 165 runs in 19.1 overs. Their captain, Harry Brook, was the star performer in the match, scoring 100 runs off 51 balls, including 10 fours and four sixes, and contributing significantly to their team's victory.

New Zealand, on the other hand, defeated Sri Lanka by 61 runs in their previous match. This match is very important for New Zealand; a win will ensure their qualification for the semi-finals. Against Sri Lanka, they displayed a superb bowling performance, restricting the Sri Lankan team to 107 runs for just 20 runs. Mitchell Santner was the star performer in the previous match, scoring 47 runs and taking one wicket. Tim Seifert scored 181 runs in the last 5 matches for New Zealand

Also Read: IND vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today: Match 48, Pitch Report, Playing XI & Fantasy Tips

ENG vs NZ Match Details

• Match: England vs New Zealand, 49th Match

• Date: 27th February 2026

• Time: 7:00 PM IST

• Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo 

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

ENG vs NZ Weather Report

Pitch Report - R. Premadasa Stadium

The pitch at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo offers a balanced track that favours both the batters and bowlers, where the average 1st innings score in the last six matches is 160 runs.

• Spin-friendly surface 

• Low-scoring ground

• Large boundaries 

ENG vs NZ Recent Form

ENG vs NZ Head-to-Head Record (T20I)

• ENG Wins - 16

• NZ Wins - 10

Top Batters to Watch – ENG vs NZ

• Harry Brook (ENG): 202 runs in this tournament 

• Tim Seifert (NZ): 181 runs in this tournament 

• Finn Allen (NZ): 160 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – ENG vs NZ

• Jofra Archer (ENG): 10 wickets in this tournament 

• Jamie Overton (ENG): 9 wickets in this tournament 

• Rachin Ravindra (NZ): 6 wickets in this tournament 

ENG vs NZ Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If ENG bats first

• Powerplay Score: 40–45

• Predicted Total: 145–160

• Match Result: NZ to win

Scenario 2: If NZ bats first

• Powerplay Score: 45–55

• Predicted Total: 155–170

• Match Result: NZ to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

ENG vs NZ Predicted Playing XIs

England 

Philip Salt, Jos Buttler/Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton (wk), Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid

New Zealand 

Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson.

Why New Zealand is the favourite

• Excellent top-order

• All-rounder options 

• Good spin bowler 

ENG vs NZ Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, New Zealand are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Tim Seifert, Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra are expected to be the key performers.

Winning chances

NZ: 60%

ENG: 40%

ENG vs NZ Match FAQs

Q1. Where can I watch the ENG vs NZ live match?

You can watch the live streaming on the JioHotstar 

Q2. Who will win today’s ENG vs NZ match?

According to our today's match prediction, New Zealand are the favourites to win this encounter.

Q3. What time will the ENG vs NZ match start?

The match begins at 7:00 PM IST 

Sri Lanka lost their opening clash of the Super 8 stage in the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 against England at the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy, while New Zealand were unfortunate to stay indoors due to the persistent rain against Pakistan, as both teams put their best foot forward for their second and vital fixture of the Super 8 at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Sri Lanka’s obvious issue was going to the opening partnership of the Kiwi side, of Finn Allen and Tim Seifert. The former started brutally and smashed two boundaries in the second over before getting a life when Maheesh Theekshana dropped him with a hard catch. But the off-spinner later came back to find the wicket of Allen.

See Also: Watch: Pakistan fans protest outside PCB Headquarter to omit Babar Azam post ENG vs PAK T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash

It was the very first ball of the evening from Theekshana, who took a fine return catch and threw the ball towards the umpire, and hit the turf, which seemed to be a slight bit of disappointment from the dropped catch in the last over. It was a carrom ball on the stumps, and Allen went deep inside the crease to stay leg-side of the ball and ended up chipping it back to the spinner.

Maheesh Theekshana dismisses Finn Allen in T20 WC 2026

It was the second time Allen was dismissed in T20Is against Theekshana, who has the upper hand with two wickets in as many innings in four balls by conceding only one run. Theekshana later came back to dismiss the vital wicket of Rachin Ravindra, who smashed 32 runs in 22 balls with the help of three fours and one six.

Watch the video here: 

𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝, 𝐄𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐝, & 𝐒𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐆𝐄𝐃! 🧤

Maheesh Theekshana holds on & sends the dangerous Finn Allen back!

ICC Men’s #T20WorldCup | SUPER 8, #SLvNZ ➡️ LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/g4wqt4U8vL pic.twitter.com/AaJwzT38Oy

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 25, 2026

Two balls later, he went past the defense of Mark Chapman for a two-ball duck. The southpaw had no clue as the ball landed in line with the stumps and turned enough to bite the deck and hammer the top of the off-stump.

In the very next over, Dunith Wellalage’s left-arm spin with the arm got the better of Daryl Mitchell as they got the Kiwis side 86/6 in 13 overs. The only way for the Blackcaps to get out of the situation was for their captain, Mitchell Santner, to play a sensational knock.

Brief Scores: New Zealand 88/6 (Rachin Ravindra 32, Maheesh Theekshana 3/9) vs Sri Lanka. 

Sri Lanka will face New Zealand in the 46th match of the Super 8 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. The Sri Lankan team didn't have a good start in the Super 8s, losing their first match to England by 51 runs. The Sri Lankan bowlers performed well, restricting England to 146 runs in 20 overs, but their batting completely collapsed, and the team was all out for just 95 runs.

New Zealand, on the other hand, has performed well in this World Cup, winning three of their four matches and finishing second in the Group D points table. Their first Super 8 match, against Pakistan, was abandoned due to rain. This match will be crucial for both teams, as Sri Lanka will look to improve their position with a win, while New Zealand will also move up the points table. New Zealand have beaten Sri Lanka 5 times in Sri Lanka in T20I cricket.

Also Read: SA-W vs PAK-W Today Match Prediction | 2nd ODI – Who Will Win?

No T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal in India? ICC changes schedule in middle of competition

SL vs NZ Match Details

• Match: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand, 46th Match

• Date: 25th February 2026

• Time: 7.00 PM IST

• Venue:  R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

SL vs NZ Weather Report

Pitch Report - R. Premadasa Stadium

R Premadasa Stadium is mostly known for its balanced pitch surface, but it tends to favour spin bowlers a bit more as the surface continues to get slower, offering more grip and turn.

• Spin-friendly surface 

• Low-scoring ground

• Quick outfield 

• Large boundaries 

SL vs NZ Recent Form

SL vs NZ Head-to-Head Record (T20I)

• SL Wins - 9

• NZ Wins - 16

Top Batters to Watch – SL vs NZ

• Pathum Nissanka (SL): 208 runs in this tournament 

• Kusal Mendis (SL): 186 runs in this tournament 

• Tim Seifert (NZ): 173 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – SL vs NZ

• Maheesh Theekshana (SL): 8 wickets in this tournament 

• Dunith Wellalage (SL): 7 wickets in this tournament 

• Lockie Ferguson (NZ): 4 wickets in this tournament 

SL vs NZ Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If SL bats first

• Powerplay Score:45–50

• Predicted Total: 140–150

• Match Result: NZ to win

Scenario 2: If NZ bats first

• Powerplay Score: 50–55

• Predicted Total: 150–160

• Match Result: NZ to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

SL vs NZ Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka 

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (WK), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (C), Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.

New Zealand 

Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips (WK), Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (C), Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson.

Why New Zealand is the favourite

• Experienced top-order

• Good pace bowler 

• Tim Seifert recent form

SL vs NZ Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, New Zealand are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Tim Seifert, Finn Allen and Rachin Ravindra are expected to be the key performers.

Winning chances

SL: 40%

NZ: 60%

SL vs NZ Match FAQs