Colombo: Pakistan-origin all-rounder Rehan Ahmed delivered a match-winning performance with both bat and ball as England edged New Zealand by four wickets in a nerve-wracking Super 8 clash at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, throwing a lifeline to Pakistan’s semi-final qualification hopes in the process.
Ahmed, making his Super 8 debut, picked up two wickets in three overs while conceding 28 runs. But it was his explosive contribution at the crease that truly turned the game on its head the young all-rounder blazed an unbeaten 19 off just 7 balls at a strike rate of around 300, guiding England home in the final over of the match.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner won the toss and opted to bat first in what was effectively a must-win game for his side. Half-centuries were not on the cards, but Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, and Finn Allen all chipped in with contributions in the 30s to help the Kiwis post a competitive total of 161 runs.
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England’s chase began on shaky ground. Openers Phil Salt and Jos Buttler were both back in the pavilion with just two runs on the board, leaving the team in early trouble. However, the middle and lower order refused to buckle, with each batsman making meaningful contributions to keep the run chase on track.
Will Jacks proved equally vital to England’s cause, claiming two wickets with the ball before hammering a quickfire 28 off 17 balls including the winning runs. His partnership with Rehan Ahmed in the closing stages of the innings proved decisive, seeing England across the line when it mattered most.
The result keeps Pakistan’s prospects of reaching the semi-finals alive, with attention now firmly turning to the upcoming Pakistan vs Sri Lanka fixture.
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