England topped their Super Eights group in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand on Friday, leaving the Kiwis anxiously dependent on Pakistan’s final group match.
New Zealand must now wait for the outcome of Pakistan’s match against co-hosts Sri Lanka on Saturday in Pallekele. For Pakistan to qualify alongside England, they must not only win but also overturn New Zealand’s superior net run rate.
England’s chase of 160 at the R. Premadasa Stadium was led by Player of the Match Will Jacks, as the former champions reached the target after New Zealand posted 159 for 7.
England were under early pressure after losing openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, slipping to 2 for 2 within eight balls. The situation worsened when captain Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell fell in quick succession, leaving England at 58 for 4 in the ninth over.
Jacks and Rehan Ahmed then steadied the innings with an unbeaten seventh-wicket partnership of 44, scoring 32 and 19 respectively to seal the win.
Reflecting on his fourth Player of the Match award in the tournament, Jacks said the innings was his best so far. “It was on a knife edge when I went in. Rehan played brilliantly and put them under pressure,” he said.
Earlier, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and chose to bat, knowing a win would confirm their place in the semifinals. The Kiwis made a strong start, reaching 64 without loss, but England’s spinners turned the match.
Adil Rashid dismissed Tim Seifert for 35, while Jacks removed Finn Allen for 29. Ahmed claimed Rachin Ravindra with his first ball in World Cup cricket. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 39 before falling to Jacks.
England captain Brook praised Ahmed’s impact, saying team selection was based on conditions and the young spinner delivered at a crucial moment.
From Group 1, South Africa have already secured a semifinal place. The second spot will be decided by Sunday’s match between India and West Indies. England will face the winner of that match in the semifinals.
For Pakistan to overtake New Zealand and reach the semifinals against South Africa, they must beat Sri Lanka by at least 65 runs or chase the target within 13 overs.
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