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    Fans erupt as Will Jacks’ all-round heroics help England pip New Zealand to keep Pakistan alive in T20 World Cup 2026

    kumbhorgBy No Comments6 Mins Read
    Fans erupt as Will Jacks’ all-round heroics help England pip New Zealand to keep Pakistan alive in T20 World Cup 2026

    England registered a crucial four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the Super 8 Group 2 clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R.Premadasa Stadium, Khettarama. In a tightly fought contest, England chased down 160 in 19.3 overs, overcoming early blows to secure two valuable points. England’s win has also helped Pakistan to keep their hopes alive for the semi-final of the multi-team event.

    Solid start for New Zealand

    After winning the toss, New Zealand chose to bat first and started aggressively. Tim Seifert looked fluent at the top, scoring 35 off 25 balls with three fours and two sixes. Finn Allen complemented him with a quickfire 29 off 19 deliveries, smashing three sixes during the powerplay. The opening pair ensured New Zealand got off to a promising start.

    However, England’s bowlers pulled things back in the middle overs. Rachin Ravindra struggled to accelerate and fell for 11, while Daryl Mitchell managed just 3 runs. Glenn Phillips held the innings together with a well-compiled 39 off 28 balls, striking four boundaries and a six. Mark Chapman added a brisk 15 off 9, and late contributions from Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie pushed New Zealand to 159 for 7 in their 20 overs.

    England spinners apply the brakes

    England’s spin trio played a key role in restricting the total. Adil Rashid delivered an impactful spell, finishing with 2 for 28 in his four overs. Will Jacks was equally impressive, claiming 2 for 23 and breaking important partnerships. Rehan Ahmed also picked up two wickets, maintaining pressure in the middle phase. Liam Dawson chipped in with one wicket, ensuring New Zealand never truly broke free after the powerplay.

    Early jolts rock England’s chase

    Chasing 160, England endured a nightmare start. Phil Salt fell for 2, and captain Jos Buttler departed for a duck, leaving the side under immediate pressure. The responsibility then fell on the middle order to rebuild.

    Harry Brook steadied the innings with 26 off 24 balls, while Jacob Bethell contributed 21 off 16 deliveries, striking four boundaries. Tom Banton added a valuable 33 off 24 balls, keeping England in the hunt as the required rate crept up.

    Also WATCH: Brian Bennett’s Beckham-style reflexes deny Jasprit Bumrah a stunning yorker dismissal during T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash

    Will Jacks and Rehan Ahmed seal the deal

    New Zealand spinner Rachin Ravindra produced a superb spell of 3 for 19, briefly swinging momentum back in his team’s favor. Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry also claimed a wicket each, tightening the contest heading into the final overs. However, Jacks turned the tide with a decisive knock of 32 off 18 balls, smashing four fours and a six at a crucial juncture. With the equation narrowing, Ahmed provided the finishing flourish, scoring 19 off just 7 balls, including two massive sixes that sealed the game.

    England eventually reached 161 for 6 in 19.3 overs, completing a tense chase with four wickets in hand. The win strengthens England’s campaign in the Super 8 stage, while New Zealand are left to reflect on missed opportunities in a match that remained finely balanced until the very end.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar highlights silver lining of South Africa defeat following India’s T20 World Cup Super 8 triumph vs Zimbabwe

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