It is a massive day for Pakistan at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. After a disappointing Super 8 campaign so far, Pakistan still have a small window to reach the semi-finals. Their fate now depends on their final group match.
Pakistan will take on Sri Lanka at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. A win is necessary. But just winning may not be enough. They need a big win to improve their Net Run Rate.
England have already sealed a semi-final spot from Super 8 Group 2. The second place will go to either New Zealand or Pakistan.
Pakistan lost to England in their second Super 8 match. Their first match against New Zealand was washed out due to rain. As a result, Pakistan have just one point from two games.
New Zealand have three points from three matches. They also have a much better Net Run Rate. That makes Pakistan’s task harder.
According to the ICC: “To overtake New Zealand on Net Run Rate, they’ll need to beat Dasun Shanaka’s side by more than 65 runs, or chase down a target inside 13 overs, though the figures won’t be exactly known until after the first innings of the match.”
England’s Win Keeps Pakistan Alive
New Zealand missed their chance to qualify after losing to England by four wickets. New Zealand had England at 117/6 in the 17th over while defending 160. But strong hitting at the end changed the match.
“Would have made our lives easier if we won,” New Zealand captain Mitch Santner said. “We played a pretty good game. Credit to England. Jacks and Rehan with the finishing touches – it was a good bit of batting.”
Now, Pakistan have one last chance. A big win over Sri Lanka can send them into the semi-finals.
