Photo/TimesofIndia.com

NEW DELHI: The first match of the Super Eight stage at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 was abandoned on Saturday after continuous rain prevented any play between Pakistan and New Zealand at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.Officials called off the game after conditions failed to improve enough for a start, meaning the Super Eight phase began without a ball being bowled. Both teams shared one point each, which could affect their chances of reaching the semi-finals.

The playing conditions of this tournament for the International Cricket Council (ICC) require a minimum of five overs per side for a result to be declared. The cut-off time for a shortened contest was set at 10:15pm, but the weather never cleared. With no reserve days in the Super Eights – they are only available for the semifinals and final – the fixture was abandoned and ‘no result’ was marked against it. Pakistan had won the toss and chosen to bat first amid light drizzle, but the rain soon became heavier, forcing the match to be abandoned.Before the washout, Pakistan made one change, bringing in Fakhar Zaman in place of Khawaja Nafay.New Zealand made three changes, with captain Mitchell Santner returning after missing the previous match against Canada due to a stomach issue, while Lockie Ferguson and Ish Sodhi were also included in the playing XI.The abandoned match has tightened the situation for both teams ahead of their remaining two Super Eight fixtures. Another washout or a defeat could seriously affect their chances of reaching the semi-finals. Pakistan, New Zealand, England and Sri Lanka are placed in Group 2 of the Super Eight stage. Pakistan will next play England in their next Super Eight match on February 24, at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.New Zealand will remain in Colombo to play the Sri Lanka on February 25.

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The US Supreme Court’s decision striking down tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump has done little to ease pressures on the global economy, with analysts warning that uncertainty over future trade policy may instead intensify. Economists said the ruling, while limiting Trump’s use of tariffs under emergency powers, is unlikely to change the broader trajectory of global trade tensions as Washington explores alternative ways to impose duties, reported Reuters.

“In general, I think it will just bring in a new period of high uncertainty in world trade, as everybody tries to figure out what the U.S. tariff policy will be going forward,” said Varg Folkman, analyst at the European Policy Centre think tank. “In the end it’s going to look pretty much the same.”Following the judgment, Trump announced new global tariffs of 10 per cent for an initial 150-day period and acknowledged uncertainty over whether funds collected under the annulled levies would be refunded.Analysts said multiple questions remain unresolved, including what new tariffs could emerge and whether countries that negotiated agreements with the US to soften tariff impacts may reopen those arrangements.Economists at ING bank said, as quoted Reuters, the ruling does not mark an end to tariff-driven trade policy. “The scaffolding has come down, but the building remains under construction. No matter how today’s ruling reads, tariffs are here to stay.”The court’s decision applies only to tariffs introduced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), legislation designed for national emergencies. Those levies are estimated to have generated more than $175 billion in revenue.According to Global Trade Alert, the ruling reduces the trade-weighted average US tariff rate from 15.4 per cent to 8.3 per cent. Countries facing higher tariffs — including China, Brazil and India — could see double-digit percentage-point reductions, though duties remain elevated.Countries that struck bilateral deals with Washington to mitigate tariff impacts are now expected to assess whether the ruling offers grounds to renegotiate terms.Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s trade committee, said lawmakers would evaluate the implications while moving toward ratification of the EU-US trade pact.“The era of unlimited, arbitrary tariffs … might now be coming to an end,” Lange said on X. “We must now carefully evaluate the ruling and its consequences.”Britain, meanwhile, said it expects its preferential trading arrangement with the United States — including a baseline 10 per cent tariff — to remain unchanged.Despite years of tariff disruptions, the global economy has broadly held up. A Federal Reserve Bank of New York report indicated that much of the tariff burden has been absorbed by US consumers.The International Monetary Fund projected global growth at a “resilient” 3.3 per cent in 2026 in its latest World Economic Outlook update.China reported a record trade surplus of nearly $1.2 trillion in 2025, supported by stronger exports to markets outside the United States as producers adapted to tariff pressures.Some countries may therefore opt to retain existing bilateral deals rather than risk renewed instability, Folkman said, referring to the uncertainty triggered by Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs in 2025.However, Niclas Poitiers, research fellow at economic think tank Bruegel, told Reuters political uncertainties surrounding the EU-US trade agreement remain significant.“There could be circumstances in which the deal unravels,” he noted.

SRINAGAR: At an induction rally in Srinagar on Saturday, BJP put leader of opposition in the J&K assembly, Sunil Sharma, on the forefront to launch a political attack on Omar Abdullah govt.Sharma, who represents the Paddar constituency in Kishtwar district, alternated between Urdu and Kashmiri as he addressed hundreds of party workers, accusing governing National Conference (NC) of practising “doublespeak” on Kashmir, and failing to fulfil promises on jobs and welfare schemes.The J&K chief of BJP and Rajya Sabha member Sat Sharma welcomed new entrants into the party fold from PDP, NC and Congress, calling such steady influx of leaders and workers from every section in Kashmir as indication of the party’s widening base.“He (CM Omar Abdullah) says one thing in Delhi and another in Kashmir,” Sunil Sharma told the gathering, adding that NC leaders portray Kashmiris in a negative light before the central govt, while publicly expressing sympathy for their suffering in the Valley. “Why don’t people see this doublespeak?” he wondered.However, it was his attempt to draw a parallel between two defining moments in Kashmir’s history that drew particular attention and raised the hackles of NC, which accused BJP of “manufacturing narratives”.Sharma referred to the 2010 unrest, when more than 100 civilians, many of them teenagers, were killed during months of protests and clashes with police and security forces. Among the first to be killed were 13-year-old Wamiq Farooq and 17-year-old Tufail Mattoo, whose deaths became rallying points for widespread demonstrations. Sharma said Omar had justified the killings of Wamiq and Tufail, claiming they were part of a “rebellion” against the then govt led by him.The LoP then invoked July 13, 1931, when 22 people were shot dead by the forces of Maharaja Hari Singh outside Srinagar jail during protests against Dogra rule. The date is widely commemorated in Kashmir as ‘Martyrs’ Day’.Those killed in 1931 were remembered as ‘martyrs’ by NC, while Wamiq, Tufail and others killed in 2010 were charged with rebellion, Sharma said, adding “we need to reflect on this”.He accused NC of exploiting “Kashmiri sentiments” after failing to deliver on economic commitments, including promises of jobs and 200 units free electricity, and alleged that govt had outsourced 24000 jobs to an unknown company. “BJP will come on roads against such clandestine recruitments,” he said.NC spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar dismissed the allegations. “It is BJP that has failed to deliver on its promise of restoring statehood,” he said. Referring to July 13, 1931, Dar said the day symbolised Kashmiri resistance against monarchy and the assertion of Kashmir’s identity. “BJP is trying to build a fake narrative around it. They are trying the same with the events of 2010 to arouse sentiments in Kashmir in their favour,” he said.

The opening fixture of the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 stage ended in frustration on February 21, 2026, as persistent tropical rain in Colombo forced the highly anticipated clash between Pakistan and New Zealand to be abandoned. Despite the best efforts of the ground staff at the R. Premadasa Stadium, the heavens opened immediately after the toss, leaving fans and players in a prolonged, sodden wait.

This ‘No Result’ means both teams share a single point, a result that adds immense pressure to their upcoming fixtures against Group 2 heavyweights England and Sri Lanka. With no reserve day allocated for this round, the weather has effectively turned the remaining Super 8 matches into must-win knockout encounters for both sides.

Colombo rain denies Pakistan and New Zealand a T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 fast-start

The R. Premadasa Stadium transformed into a sea of blue tarpaulins as monsoon-like weather completely derailed the start of Group 2’s Super 8 proceedings. Following the toss at 6:30 PM, where Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha confirmed a tactical shift by bringing in the experienced Fakhar Zaman for Khawaja Nafay, a steady drizzle quickly intensified into a heavy downpour.

New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner, back in the side after a stomach bug, had opted for a spin-heavy attack featuring Ish Sodhi and Lockie Ferguson, but the tactical battle never materialized as the drainage system was eventually overwhelmed by the volume of water. As the cut-off time of 10:16 PM approached for a minimum five-over game, the umpires held several inspections, but the sodden outfields and continuous puddling near the boundary ropes made play impossible.

The match was officially called off at 9:10 PM IST, leaving the ‘Men in Green’ and the ‘Black Caps’ to share the points without a single ball being delivered. This washout is particularly bittersweet for Pakistan, who entered the match with high momentum after a thumping win over Namibia, only to have their strategy stalled by the elements. For the Kiwis, the shared point is equally frustrating, as they sought to exploit the spin-friendly Colombo tracks with their returning veterans.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Is there a reserve day for Pakistan vs New Zealand Super 8 game? Here’s what we know

What lies ahead for Group 2 after Pakistan vs New Zealand clash washed out

The abandonment of the Colombo opener has drastically shifted the qualification math for Group 2, leaving both Pakistan and New Zealand with zero margin for error in their final two matches. Pakistan now travels to the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy for a high-voltage clash against England on February 24, a team they have historically struggled against in T20 World Cups.

This match is now essentially a quarter-final; a loss would leave Pakistan needing a miracle to reach the semi-finals, especially with a looming final group game against co-hosts Sri Lanka on February 28. Similarly, New Zealand faces a grueling path, starting with a match against a formidable Sri Lankan side on February 25 back at the R. Premadasa Stadium, followed by a showdown with England on February 27.

The shared point leaves both teams tied for second in the live standings, but with England and Sri Lanka yet to play their opening game tomorrow in Kandy, the pressure is on the “washout teams” to keep pace with the winners of that encounter. Fans will be keeping a close eye on the Pallekele weather forecast, as another rain-affected game could turn Group 2 into a chaotic scramble decided by Net Run Rate or even higher-seeded pre-tournament rankings.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

NZ probably the team Pak feared the most in Group B, so perhaps a good point for them. But this was the only Super 8 game they were playing at the Premadasa. Their spinners may not have such a big say in Kandy..#PAKvNZ #T20WorldCup

— Hemant (@hemantbuch) February 21, 2026

Pak vs NZ called off, abandoned without a ball being bowled.
Kiska nafa? Kiska nuksan?#PakvsNZ #ICCT20WorldCup2026

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) February 21, 2026

Official! One point each.
Not the ideal way to finish a contest, but in tournaments every point counts. If Pak stay sharp with their net run rate and execution in the next games, this shared point could still prove valuable in the bigger picture.#PAKvNZ #T20WorldCup

— Mansoor Rana (@mansoorrana205) February 21, 2026

So the match between Pakistan and New Zealand is officially andondend !!! Rain has given it’s call and it’s over !! 1 point for each team !!#PAKvsNZ #PAKvNZ #T20WorldCup #T20WorldCup2026 #T20WC2026 pic.twitter.com/gd0rElzAtb

— Laiba Khan (@TheLaibaKhan) February 21, 2026

Everyone thought matches in SL will always have risk of rain interruption before the start of this #T20WorldCup. It didn’t bother much in the group games but it’s not the case for the first super 8 game. Such games would have huge impact in this group #PAKvNZ #NZvPAK https://t.co/UGuW7QPRXc

— Gaurav Jindal (@gauravgjindal) February 21, 2026

Officially called off. 1 point each for Pakistan & New Zealand.

— Aatif Nawaz (@AatifNawaz) February 21, 2026

Pakistan and New Zealand both got 1 point each as match called off due to rain . Now Pakistan must has to win from either Sri Lanka or england to qualify . Pak vs Nz pic.twitter.com/EmdGMQHNtN

— Khan (@ccricket713) February 21, 2026

Hard luck for New Zealand. They had to share a point with Pakistan due to rain. That one extra point might now help them qualify for the semifinals.

— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) February 21, 2026

Rain saving Pakistan yet again pic.twitter.com/dqvoHmxSWs

— Haydos🛡️ (@GovindIstSTH) February 21, 2026

🌧️ RAIN STOPS PLAY, NOT RESPECT!

Salman Ali Agha & Mitchell Santner exchange handshakes 🤝

A classy end to a washed-out game 🏏#PAKvsNZ #colombo #Pakistan #T20WorldCup #cricket #NewZealand #T20WorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/o6qrpiYmFx

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 21, 2026

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Harbhajan Singh predicts Team India’s playing XI for Super 8 clash against South Africa

Polish speed skater Kamila Sellier shares hospital update after terrifying Olympic blade incident with Kristen Santos Griswold (Image via Getty)

Kamila Sellier is smiling again, and the Polish speed skater shared a hospital photo on Saturday morning and told fans she is “doing quite okay” after a frightening crash at the Winter Olympics. Kamila Sellier, 25, needed surgery after a rival’s skate blade cut her face during the women’s 1500 meters quarterfinal on Friday. She was carried off the ice on a stretcher, her face covered in blood, in a moment that stunned the arena. Sellier posted her update on Instagram less than a day later. Along with a picture from her hospital bed, she wrote, “i know that one day i’ll look at this picture and remember that i’m stronger than i ever believed. thank you for all your words of support, just wanted to let you know that i’m doing quite okay 🫣 #thankyou.”According to BBC, she underwent surgery Friday night. Polsat Sports reported that a CT scan showed a minor fracture. A Team Poland official told BBC, “Kamila had surgery last night. She’s in good condition. We’re waiting for further tests today, to check her eye for any signs of damage.” It was a scary scene, but now, the focus has shifted from shock to recovery.Kamila Sellier injured after clash with Kristen Santos-Griswold and Ariana Fontana in women’s 1500 meters at Milano Ice Skating ArenaThe crash happened during the sixth quarterfinal heat of the women’s 1500 meters. Kamila Sellier got tangled with Italy’s Ariana Fontana as they fought for position. In that split second, American skater Kristen Santos-Griswold’s blade struck Sellier’s face when Sellier slipped and fell.Blood appeared on the ice right away. Officials stopped the race as medical staff rushed in. A large white sheet was held up to block the view while doctors treated her. The delay lasted several minutes as the crowd watched in silence.Kristen Santos-Griswold was later given a penalty for an illegal lane pass during the sequence.Sellier received stitches at the Milano Ice Skating Arena before being taken to a hospital for more tests. Konrad Niedźwiedzki, sports director of the Polish Speed Skating Association, said Friday that the accident may have injured her zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone.As she was taken off the ice, Sellier lifted her thumb to signal she was okay. That small gesture brought loud applause from fans inside the arena.Now, doctors are checking her eye to make sure there is no lasting damage. For the moment, the biggest news is simple and clear, Kamila Sellier is stable, recovering, and staying positive.

Nasa’s Artemis II mission, which recently completed a wet dress rehearsal and was targeting an early March launch window, may now face delays after engineers detected an interruption in helium flow in the rocket. A day after announcing that its ambitious moon mission successfully completed the wet dress rehearsal, Nasa shared overnight observations on Saturday that revealed an interruption in the flow of helium into the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket’s interim cryogenic propulsion stage – a critical system required for launch. Nasa is now evaluating whether the issue will require rolling the rocket and its Orion spacecraft back to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.In a post on X, Nasa Administrator Jared Isaacman said, “After overnight data showed an interruption in helium flow in the SLS interim cryogenic propulsion stage, teams are troubleshooting and preparing for a likely rollback of Artemis II to the VAB at @NASAKennedy. This will almost assuredly impact the March launch window. @NASA will continue to provide updates as they become available.”The announcement came just a day after the four astronauts assigned to the mission entered quarantine in Houston in preparation for the early March launch. The rocket had recently undergone a wet dress rehearsal, simulating launch day operations and fueling up to T-29 seconds, with no evidence of leaks reported during the test. This followed a previous hydrogen leak that had forced Nasa to repeat the prelaunch test earlier this month, USA Today reported.According to Nasa, “Teams are actively reviewing data, and taking steps to enable rollback positions for Nasa to address the issue as soon as possible while engineers determine the best path forward.”To maintain troubleshooting options at both Pad 39B and the VAB, Nasa teams are preparing to remove the pad access platforms installed on February 20. The platforms cannot be removed during periods of high winds, which are forecast for February 22 near the Cape. The space agency further emphasised that while the rollback preparations are underway, engineers are still assessing the best course of action to resolve the helium flow interruption and safeguard the Artemis II launch schedule.