COLOMBO: (Anwar Zeb Khan) New Zealand national cricket team defeated Sri Lanka national cricket team by 61 runs in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, severely denting Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals.

After winning the toss and electing to field, Sri Lanka allowed New Zealand to post 168 for 7 in 20 overs. Mitchell Santner led the charge with 47 runs, while McConchie added 31 to anchor the innings.

In response, Sri Lanka struggled throughout their chase and managed only 107 for 8 in their allotted overs, crashing out of the semi-final race after consecutive defeats.

The emphatic win lifted New Zealand’s net run rate to +3.05, while Pakistan remain at -0.46, leaving them with a steep qualification equation.

New Zealand will face England cricket team on Friday, while Pakistan take on Sri Lanka on Saturday. Even if England defeat New Zealand, Pakistan must secure a massive win to stay in contention. A New Zealand victory over England would eliminate Pakistan before their final group match.

England have already qualified for the semi-finals from the group.