The Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup begins on Saturday, with Pakistan and New Zealand facing off at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

The match is scheduled to start at 6:30 pm local time. Both teams won three matches each in the initial group stage to advance.

Pakistan finished second in Group A, while New Zealand secured second place in Group D.

The Super Eight stage pits eight strong teams against each other, with every match having potential implications for the semi-final race.

Pakistan is expected to make two changes to its lineup. Opener Fakhar Zaman may return, and spinner Abrar Ahmed could be included to bolster the middle overs.

Experts say Pakistan will need cautious but positive batting in the early overs to maximise the power play, with a responsible middle-order performance crucial.

Fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah are expected to take early wickets, while spinners Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed could play a key role on the spin-friendly Colombo pitch.

Cricket fans are closely watching the match, which could significantly affect the Super Eight points table and influence the race for the semi-finals.