PAK vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Today, The Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off with a high-stakes clash between Pakistan (PAK) and New Zealand (NZ) at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Both teams enter this round with identical records of three wins from four games in the group stage. While Pakistan dominated Namibia to secure their spot, New Zealand has been remarkably consistent, led by the tactical brilliance of Mitchell Santner.
Match Details
- Match: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Match 41 (Super 8 Group 2)
- Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Date & Time: February 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST
- Toss: Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first.
- Weather Update: Currently, there is a rain delay in Colombo. Persistent drizzle has kept the covers on, but the excellent drainage at RPS suggests a game is likely, even if overs are reduced.
Pitch & Ground Conditions
The R. Premadasa surface is a “tacky” wicket that traditionally aids spinners.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 155–165
- Fantasy Tip: With the ball expected to grip, spinners and cutters will be more effective than raw pace. Taking the pace off the ball is the key strategy here.
- DLS Factor: Since rain is in the air, players who bat in the top 3 are high-value picks as they are guaranteed to face balls if the match is shortened.
Probable Playing XIs
Pakistan
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
Tim Seifert (w), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson.
Top Dream11 Picks & Key Players
1. Sahibzada Farhan (PAK)
The tournament’s leading run-scorer (220 runs) is in the form of his life. Coming off a spectacular century against Namibia, he is a “must-have” and a top captaincy candidate.
2. Mitchell Santner (NZ)
On a Colombo track that turns, the Kiwi skipper is a goldmine for fantasy points. His ability to stifle runs in the middle overs and chip in with the bat makes him invaluable.
3. Rachin Ravindra (NZ)
Ravindra has adapted beautifully to Sri Lankan conditions. Being a solid player of spin and offering a left-arm orthodox option, he is a perfect utility player for your XI.
4. Usman Tariq (PAK)
The mystery spinner has already bagged 8 wickets this tournament. His variations are notoriously difficult to read, especially on a surface that offers natural grip.
Dream11 Fantasy Team Suggestion
| Position | Player | Reasoning |
| Wicket-Keeper | Tim Seifert, Finn Allen | Both are explosive and handle the new ball well. |
| Batters | Sahibzada Farhan (VC), Babar Azam | Farhan for form; Babar for stability on a tricky pitch. |
| All-Rounders | Mitchell Santner (C), Shadab Khan, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips | The core of the team; all four contribute with both bat and ball. |
| Bowlers | Usman Tariq, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi | Spin-heavy attack to exploit the Colombo conditions. |
Captaincy Choice: Mitchell Santner (due to pitch conditions)
Vice-Captain Choice: Sahibzada Farhan (due to red-hot form)
FAQs
1. Who won the toss?
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first.
2. What happens if the match is washed out?
In the Super 8 stage, if no play is possible and there is no reserve day (only semis/finals have them), the points will be shared between both teams.
3. Is Fakhar Zaman playing?
Yes, despite a slight knee niggle, Fakhar Zaman has been included in the Playing XI for this crucial Super 8 opener.
Conclusion
This match will likely be decided in the middle overs. Pakistan’s spinners, led by the mystery of Usman Tariq, against New Zealand’s experienced middle order will be the battle to watch. Given the conditions and recent form, Pakistan starts as slight favorites, but never count out the Kiwis in a World Cup scenario.
