Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have become very slim. They lost to England in their second Super 8 match. The defeat has put huge pressure on the team.
Pakistan had a strong start to the tournament. They beat Namibia, the Netherlands, and the USA in the group stage. Their only loss in that phase came against India. However, their campaign has slowed down in the Super 8 stage.
Pakistan Face Tough Road to Semi-Finals After England Defeat in T20 World Cup 2026
Their first Super 8 match against New Zealand was washed out due to rain. Pakistan received only one point. After that, they suffered a narrow two-wicket defeat against England. England captain Harry Brook scored a match-winning century and guided his team to victory.
England now have two wins from two matches. They have officially qualified for the semi-finals. New Zealand have one point and two matches left. Sri Lanka have lost their first game and remain at the bottom of the group.
Pakistan currently have one point from two matches. Their net run rate is also negative. Because of this, their qualification path has become complicated.
Pakistan Semi-final Qualification Scenarios
Pakistan must defeat Sri Lanka in their final Super 8 match. Without that win, they will be eliminated from the tournament.
In the first scenario, Pakistan beat Sri Lanka and England defeat New Zealand, while Sri Lanka also beat New Zealand. England would finish on six points and Pakistan on three points. Pakistan would then qualify alongside England.
In another scenario, Pakistan beat Sri Lanka and England again defeat New Zealand, but New Zealand beat Sri Lanka. Pakistan and New Zealand would both end on three points. Qualification would depend on net run rate.
There is also a third possibility. Pakistan beat Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka beat New Zealand, and New Zealand defeat England. Pakistan and New Zealand would again be tied on three points. Pakistan would then need a better net run rate to reach the semi-finals.
