ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, ENG vs NZ Match 49: Predicted Playing XI for Both Teams

England will take on New Zealand in Match No. 49 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (Group B, Super Eight) on February 27 at the R. Premadasa Stadium. The contest promises to be an exciting clash between two in-form sides as the race to the semifinals intensifies. England booked their place in the Super Eight after securing victories over Nepal, Scotland and Italy in the group stage, with their only defeat coming against West Indies. They carried that momentum into the Super Eight, registering impressive wins over Pakistan and Sri Lanka to confirm their semifinal berth and underline their title credentials.

New Zealand, meanwhile, enjoyed a solid group-stage campaign with wins over Canada, Afghanistan and UAE, though they fell short against South Africa. Their first Super Eight fixture was washed out due to rain, but they responded strongly with a convincing win over Sri Lanka. With three crucial points, the Black Caps currently occupy second place in the standings and remain firmly in contention for a knockout spot. Their balanced squad and ability to adapt to conditions make them a formidable opponent.

Here are the predicted playing XI for ENG vs NZ Match 49:

England: 

Top Order:  Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (WK), Jacob Bethell 

Phil Salt has scored 123 runs in six matches, including a half-century, providing brisk starts at the top. Wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler has managed 62 runs in six games and will be eager to make a bigger impact in this crucial fixture. Jacob Bethell has been one of England’s standout performers, accumulating 154 runs in six matches, including a well-crafted fifty.

Middle Order: Tom Banton, Harry Brook (Ct), Sam Curran 

Tom Banton has scored 105 runs in six matches, including a fifty, offering stability in the middle overs. Captain Harry Brook has contributed 102 runs, highlighted by a brilliant century, and his leadership will be key in high-pressure moments. Sam Curran has added valuable all-round contributions with 125 runs and six wickets.

Lower Middle Order: Will Jacks, Jamie Overton 

Will Jacks has impressed with 159 runs and five wickets in five games, showcasing his all-round abilities. Jamie Overton chipped in with 30 runs in three innings and claimed nine wickets in four outings, strengthening England’s bowling depth.

Bowler: Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid 

Jofra Archer has taken 10 wickets, consistently troubling batters with his pace. Adil Rashid has picked up eight wickets, while Liam Dawson has claimed nine, giving England strong spin options in Colombo’s conditions.

New Zealand:

Top Order: Tim Seifert (WK), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra

Tim Seifert has amassed 181 runs in six games, leading from the front. Finn Allen has scored 160 runs with his aggressive stroke play, while Rachin Ravindra has contributed 104 runs and taken six wickets, proving his all-round value.

Middle Order: Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman

Glenn Phillips has scored 137 runs in four innings, Daryl Mitchell has added 60 runs, and Mark Chapman has chipped in with 76 runs to solidify the middle order.

Lower Middle Order: Mitchell Santner (Ct), Cole McConchie

Mitchell Santner has scored 68 runs and taken two wickets, while Cole McConchie has contributed 31 runs.

Bowler: Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

Matt Henry has taken six wickets, Lockie Ferguson has four, and Ish Sodhi provides a spin option.

FAQs

Q1) When and where will England vs New Zealand Match No. 49 in the T20 World Cup 2026 be played?

A1: The match will take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, on February 27, 2026, starting at 7 PM IST.

Q2) Key players to watch in England vs New Zealand, Match No. 49?

A2: For England, Harry Brook’s form will be crucial, while for New Zealand, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen could be decisive.

Q3) Key player battles to watch in England vs New Zealand, Super 8, Match No. 49?

A3: Jos Buttler versus Mitchell Santner and Tim Seifert versus Adil Rashid are expected to be defining contests in this Super Eight clash.

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

New Zealand squad for T20 World Cup 2026:

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Cole McConchie

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.

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