Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson admitted it feels unusual to strategize against his home country New Zealand ahead of their Super 8 clash in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Hesson, who led New Zealand in past tournaments, says his focus is fully on Pakistan’s success despite the looming rain threat over Colombo.
“It will be a new experience to show loyalty to another country against my own,” Hesson told reporters.
He emphasized that while he remains a New Zealander at heart, his current commitment is to Pakistan’s team.
Hesson praised the team’s form over the past six months, highlighting strong performances from several players. “Our top order is giving a great performance,” he said, noting the importance of spinners in Colombo’s conditions.
He also spoke about key player roles: “This is the role that has been allocated for Babar Azam, and Babar knows this. He has the skills that the team needs.”
Players such as Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, and Salman Ali Agha have all contributed to Pakistan’s balanced lineup, according to Hesson.
Key tactical notes
Hesson addressed specific match tactics, referencing conditions in Colombo:
“We needed to attack a little, but the conditions were not like that.”
“We have options but will decide based on the conditions.”
He observed Salman Ali Agha’s frustration after dismissal but refrained from immediate intervention, allowing players to manage their emotions on the field.
Regarding New Zealand, Hesson noted that batsman Mark Chapman has historically performed well against Pakistan but acknowledged the challenges in Colombo will differ.
Weather threats
The high-stakes clash at R. Premadasa Stadium faces significant rain risks. AccuWeather forecasts a 74 percent chance of showers with gusty winds up to 26 kmph.
Cloudy skies and afternoon drizzle have pushed humidity to 80 percent, making it feel hotter than the actual 30°C temperature. Evening temperatures may drop to 25°C, but humidity could rise to 86 percent, creating challenging conditions for players.
According to ICC rules, no reserve day is scheduled for Super 8 matches. If both sides cannot bowl at least 5 overs each, the match will be abandoned, with each team awarded a point — a result that could influence semi-final qualification.
Historically, Pakistan leads New Zealand 5-2 in T20 World Cups, with an overall T20 record of 24-23.
Pakistan finished second in Group A with three wins and one loss to India. Super 8 Group 2 features Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and England, making every point crucial for progression.
Squads for the match
Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafi, Muhammad Nawaz, Muhammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq.
New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachan Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Cole McCunchy.
