Rain has become the central storyline as Pakistan and New Zealand prepare for their T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 opener at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. A persistent drizzle has already delayed the start of play, leaving fans and players in a state of suspense. While Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha successfully won the toss and elected to bat first, the pitch and outfield were immediately covered as the weather intensified shortly after the coin flip.
Know the cut-off time for PAK vs NZ rain-hindered match
The tournament regulations provide a specific window for play to commence. If the showers do not relents, match officials will begin reducing the number of overs starting at 8:10 PM IST. For a result to be recorded, each side must bowl a minimum of five overs; the absolute cut-off time for such a shortened game is set for 10:16 PM IST. Should the conditions fail to improve by that deadline, the match will be abandoned, with both teams sharing one point each.
ALSO READ: Only 4 India players turned up for practice ahead of key Super 8 clash vs South Africa, know why
Despite the atmospheric gloom, both teams have announced significant tactical shifts in their playing XIs. Pakistan have opted for a bold move by reintroducing Fakhar Zaman to the lineup, despite recent concerns regarding a knee injury. His presence is expected to provide much-needed aggression, though it remains to be seen how his return shifts the roles of other top-order batters like Babar Azam.
New Zealand has also bolstered their squad with the return of key personnel. Captain Mitchell Santner is back to lead the side, while speedster Lockie Ferguson has rejoined the camp after a brief absence following the birth of his child.
ALSO READ: Suryakumar Yadav openly dares South Africa ahead of Super 8 face-off, says 'Doesn't matter who...'
Pakistan's Playing XI:
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha(c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan(w), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq
New Zealand's Playing XI:
Tim Seifert(w), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner(c), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson