New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Preview & Prediction | 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup | Group Stage
Having been beaten in their opening game, defending champions New Zealand find themselves under pressure against Sri Lanka.
Date & time:
Venue: Utilita Bowl, Southampton, UK
Weather: Cloudy with occasional sunny intervals and temperatures of 21c.
How to watch: UK – Sky Sports Sky Go / USA – Willow TV & CricBuzz
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka prediction
After losing a thriller to West Indies last time out, New Zealand can’t afford another slip up this time around. But Sri Lanka represents a tough assignment with Chamari Athapaththu always a huge threat at the top of the order with some serious power and skill in her bat. Having played more recently than their opponents likely works in the favour of New Zealand, whilst Sri Lanka will need to hit the ground running from ball one after that thumping defeat at the hands of England on the opening night of the tournament.
Although she threatened a big innings in New Zealand’s first game, Sophie Devine was dismissed for 22 from 15 balls. The veteran batter looked good at the crease though and with time in the middle under her belt, it would be no surprise to see her take a step forward here. With that in mind, back a higer score from her, regardless of the final result.
New Zealand vs Sri Lanka tip: Sophie Devine to score 30+ runs
