Rachin Ravindra turned the Super-8 match of T20 World Cup 2026 into a personal masterclass, bagging 8 wickets for 27 runs and scoring 32 off 22 as New Zealand thrashed hosts Sri Lanka by 61 runs at R Premadasa Stadium. The all-round brilliance fetched him Player of the Match in a game that reaffirmed NZ’s credentials.
Batting first, New Zealand compiled 168/7, with Ravindra’s boundaries providing the fireworks amid solid partnerships. Sri Lanka’s batsmen struggled on a turning track, limping to 107/8. Now, victory over England looms as the key to semifinal qualification.
Elated Ravindra shared, ‘These triumphs are pure bliss, away from home against top sides. Sri Lanka excels here, but our full-team showing was outstanding.’ Tactically, spin dominated—17 overs, a rare T20 tactic for NZ, echoing their India game.
Insights from pace analysis post-Pakistan influenced the call. ‘Santner, the spin maestro, led discussions. We saw the pitch grip via Theekshana’s bowling and dialed back speed.’ His versatility shone: ‘Top-order batting plus overs balances us. Love contributing regardless.’
He lauded fans: ‘Sri Lankans create magic—national anthems, ‘NZ’ cheers. Those moments define big tournaments. Kudos to their massive turnouts.’ This win positions New Zealand strongly.