England, who are already in the semi-finals, defeated New Zealand by four wickets in the final match of the T20 World Cup Super Eights on Friday to complete the stage unbeaten and keep Pakistan in contention for a semi-final spot.England currently have three wins from three games in the Super Eights. New Zealand ranks second with 3 points and Pakistan ranks third with 1 point. Pakistan must register a resounding win against already eliminated Sri Lanka on Saturday to advance to the semi-finals ahead of New Zealand.Earlier, New Zealand opted to bat and scored 159 for 7 in 20 overs. Their batsmen got the first start but failed to convert the score into a bigger one. Glenn Phillips scored 39 points, Tim Seifert 35 points, Finn Allen 29 points, Mark Chapman 15 points.For England, will jacks Returned 2/23, Adil Rashid Taking 2/28, Rehan Ahmed also took 2/28. Liam Dawson took 1/32.In response, England were reduced to 2/2 before they recovered with contributions from Tom Banton (33), Will Jacks (32 not out), captain Tom Banton Harry Brooke (26), Sam Curran (24) and Rehan Ahmed (19 not out). England were 161 for 6 in 19.3 overs.For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra was the most successful bowler with figures of 3/19.
Pakistan semi-final qualifying scene
England’s victory keeps Pakistan alive in the 2026 T20 World Cup. New Zealand and Pakistan are still fighting for the remaining semi-final spots in the group.To confirm the math at Palleke tomorrow: Pakistan need to beat Sri Lanka by 64 runs or catch Sri Lanka by 13.1 runs, otherwise New Zealand will advance.Brief score:New Zealand: 159 runs in 20 overs 7 (Glenn Phillips 39, Tim Seifert 35; Will Jacks 2/23)England: 161 for 6 in 19.3 overs (Will Jacks 32 not out; Rachin Ravindra 3/19).
