ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, ENG vs NZ Match 49: 3 England Players to Watch Out For

England will take on New Zealand in Match No. 49 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (Group B, Super Eight) on February 27 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. England advanced to the Super Eight after defeating Nepal, Scotland, and Italy in the group stage, with their only loss coming against West Indies. In the Super Eight phase, they overcame Pakistan and Sri Lanka to seal their place in the semifinals.

New Zealand, meanwhile, registered wins over Canada, Afghanistan, and UAE in the group stage but fell short against South Africa. Their first Super Eight fixture was washed out due to rain, while they bounced back strongly with a win over Sri Lanka. With three points, the Black Caps currently sit second in the standings and remain in strong contention.

Also read: ENG vs NZ Match 49: 3 New Zealand Players to Watch Out For

Here are three England players to watch out for in Match No.49 of the T20 World Cup 2026:

Adil Rashid

Leg-spinner Adil Rashid continues to be one of England’s most reliable performers in T20 cricket. Although he initially struggled on Indian surfaces earlier in the tournament, Rashid rediscovered his rhythm in Sri Lankan conditions. In England’s opening Super Eight clash against Sri Lanka, he delivered a match-defining spell of 2/13, applying pressure in the middle overs and breaking crucial partnerships.

After a tough outing against Nepal, Rashid bounced back with 2/16 against West Indies and followed it up with 3/36 versus Scotland. While he conceded runs aplenty against Italy his overall impact has been significant. He also returned 1/31 against Pakistan, controlling the middle overs effectively. With Colombo’s surface expected to assist spin, Rashid’s variations and control could prove decisive against New Zealand’s strong batting lineup.

Liam Dawson

Liam Dawson could be another key figure for England. The left-arm spinner has claimed nine wickets in the tournament and has delivered several impactful spells. He began with figures of 2/21 against Nepal but went wicketless against West Indies. He responded with 2/34 versus Scotland before another quiet outing against Italy.

In the Super Eight stage, Dawson stepped up with 2/27 against Sri Lanka, playing a vital role in defending a below-par total. Against Pakistan, he produced an impressive 3/24 on a batting-friendly surface, showcasing his ability to adapt and apply pressure. With the Colombo pitch likely to offer turn and grip, Dawson’s accuracy and ability to break partnerships could once again play a game-changing role against New Zealand.

Will Jacks

All-rounder Will Jacks has quietly emerged as an important contributor for England. Though often away from the spotlight, his all-round performances have strengthened the side’s balance. In the Super Eight clash against Sri Lanka, Jacks produced a crucial spell of 3/22, dismantling the middle order and shifting the momentum in England’s favour.

During the group stage, he picked up two wickets across four matches and scored 110 runs with the bat. His unbeaten 53 against Italy highlighted his ability to anchor an innings, while his finishing contributions added momentum in tight contests. In the clash against Pakistan, his 28-run knock proved valuable in the chase as England confirmed their semifinal berth. Against New Zealand, Jacks’ dual skills with bat and ball could once again make a significant difference.

England squad for T20 World Cup 2026:

Harry Brook (c), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood 

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!