Can Pakistan still qualify for T20 World Cup semi-final after PAK vs NZ Super 8s rain washout in Colombo?
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The rain-soaked Super 8 clash between Pakistan and New Zealand in Colombo ended without a ball being bowled, leaving both teams with one point each and complicating their chances of advancing to the T20 World Cup semi-finals. The washout, which occurred during an important stage of the tournament, has made the race for the top two positions in the group more unpredictable. Both Pakistan and New Zealand now face a tough challenge as they prepare for their remaining matches.
For Pakistan, the situation is straightforward but daunting. With only two matches left against England and Sri Lanka, they need to secure wins in both to reach five points and book a semi-final spot. A single loss could drop them into a precarious position, depending on the results of other teams. Similarly, New Zealand finds itself in a similar predicament, with crucial matches ahead that will determine their fate. Both teams were initially seen as strong contenders for the semi-finals, but the rain-affected match has made their path more challenging.
The outcome of this match has also kept the group stage wide open. With other teams yet to play their Super 8 games, the full picture remains unclear. The T20 World Cup is known for its unpredictable nature, and this incident has added to the excitement and uncertainty surrounding the tournament. Fans across the globe, particularly in cricket-crazed regions like India, are eagerly following the developments, as the competition continues to unfold with unexpected twists.
This situation highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in high-stakes
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026