Rain disrupted the start of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eight stage as the opening fixture between Pakistan and New Zealand was abandoned in Colombo on Saturday (21).
Persistent showers covered the ground soon after the toss, preventing any play and forcing match officials to call off the contest, with both teams sharing one point each.
Pakistan captain Salman Agha had elected to bat first, aiming to set the tempo early, but the covers returned almost immediately as heavy rain swept across the venue.
Pakistan and New Zealand are placed in Group 2 alongside England and co-hosts Sri Lanka, with all group matches scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka.
With the Super Eight race expected to hinge on fine margins and net run rate, the washout leaves both sides chasing early momentum, knowing every remaining game could define their World Cup fate.
