COLOMBO, Feb 27 - England clinched a dramatic four-wicket victory against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup Super Eights, successfully chasing down a target of 160 with three balls remaining. The win, powered by a swift 44-run partnership between Rehan Ahmed and Will Jacks, saw England top Group Two with a perfect record.
New Zealand, batting first, posted 159-7 despite English spinners limiting their scoring. Jofra Archer’s maiden over was followed by a strong powerplay from openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen. However, Adil Rashid and Will Jacks took crucial wickets, with Rashid finishing 2-28. Glenn Phillips top-scored with 39.
England's chase faltered early, losing Phil Salt and Jos Buttler for ducks. Captain Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell attempted to stabilize the innings, but key wickets from Rachin Ravindra (3-19) left England needing 43 runs from the final three overs.
Rachin Ravindra took three wickets for 19 runs. Rehan Ahmed (19) and Will Jacks then struck crucial sixes in the 18th over, securing the win and their team's unbeaten run in the group stage.