Colombo, February 27, 2026: A blistering late cameo by Will Jacks powered England cricket team to a dramatic four-wicket victory over New Zealand cricket team in the Super Eights stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the R Premadasa Stadium on Friday.
Chasing a challenging target of 160, England reached 160/6 with three balls to spare, thanks to a match-winning 44-run partnership off just 16 deliveries between Jacks and Rehan Ahmed.
England’s pursuit began disastrously, losing openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler for two runs apiece within the first two overs. Jacob Bethell and captain Harry Brook steadied the innings with a brisk 48-run stand before Glenn Phillips dismissed Brook for 26. Bethell soon followed, leaving England reeling at 58/4.
Tom Banton (33 off 24) and Sam Curran (24 off 22) added 42 runs for the fifth wicket, but their quick dismissals left England in trouble at 117/6.
With the match hanging in the balance, Jacks turned the tide with an unbeaten 32 off 18 balls, striking four fours and a six. Rehan Ahmed provided explosive support with 19 not out from just seven deliveries, smashing two sixes and a four to seal a sensational win.
For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra impressed with figures of 3/19 in four overs, while Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson and Glenn Phillips claimed one wicket each.
Earlier, opting to bat first, New Zealand posted 159/7 in their 20 overs after a fiery start. Openers Tim Seifert (35 off 25) and Finn Allen (29 off 19) put on 64 runs before Adil Rashid provided the breakthrough. Glenn Phillips anchored the middle overs with a composed 39 off 28 balls, sharing key partnerships with Ravindra and Mark Chapman. Cole McConchie added a late 14-run cameo to push the total close to 160.
For England, Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed and Will Jacks claimed two wickets each, while Liam Dawson chipped in with one.
The victory strengthens England’s position in the Super Eights stage, keeping their hopes alive for another T20 World Cup title.
