T20 World Cup: New Zealand coach backs Black Caps to beat England

A win would see the Black Caps finish top of Group 2, while a loss could allow Pakistan to qualify, provided they beat eliminated co-host Sri Lanka on Saturday. In that case, net run rate would decide the second semi-final place.

The New Zealand squad enters the match on the back of a 61-run victory over Sri Lanka, in which captain Mitchell Santner led a remarkable recovery from 84-6 to a total of 168-7. That win knocked the hosts out of the tournament and boosted the Black Caps' chances of progressing further.

All-rounder Rachin Ravindra acknowledges the challenge posed by England, who have already secured their semi-final place thanks to Harry Brook's match-winning century against Pakistan.

Coach Rob Walters believes his team has the experience and tactical nous to overcome England, combining composure and clever decision-making under pressure.

The outcome of Friday's clash will not only determine New Zealand's group position but also set the tone for their bid to reach the T20 World Cup semi-finals.

The game is set to start Friday evening in Colombo, with both sides aware that a semi-final spot hangs in the balance.

"I think if you look historically at the Black Caps, you would probably say that they're a team that have been great problem solvers," Walters told reporters.

"They are street smart, they find a way to understand the conditions quickly.

"It's certainly something that we pride ourselves on. We can adapt to conditions quickly and find a method." 

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