Sri Lanka must beat New Zealand in a crucial T20 World Cup Super Eight match to stay alive, facing challenges from spin and injuries.

Sri Lanka faces a must-win T20 World Cup Super Eight match against New Zealand in Colombo, coming off a loss to England on a slow pitch that exposed batting struggles, particularly against spin. Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour criticized shot selection and risky running on the turning surface. Despite injuries, Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka and left-arm spinner Dunith Wellalage have shown promise. New Zealand, whose opener against Pakistan was washed out, must win the remaining games to reach the semifinals. Captain Mitchell Santner emphasized that adaptability to pitch conditions, not hidden strategies, will decide the contest, as both teams know each other well from strong group-stage performances.