In the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan faced a heartbreaking two-wicket loss against England at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. Following the match, cricketing legend Waqar Younis expressed that the ‘Green Shirts’ fell short in their batting, suggesting they needed an additional 15-20 runs to be competitive. “In the first innings, Pakistan didn’t score enough. On this pitch, they needed another 15-20 runs. A total of 175-180 would have been par,” he stated.
England’s captain Harry Brook showcased an exceptional performance, scoring 100 runs off just 51 balls, complemented by 10 fours and four sixes. Waqar lauded Brook’s skillful innings, stating, “Brook came in at number three and took complete control. It was chanceless batting; he was superb. He single-handedly took the game away from Pakistan. Pakistan bowled well in phases; Shaheen was outstanding, but they faltered in the middle overs. The spinners couldn’t make an impact and allowed too many runs. Full credit to England. Their skipper led from the front, and they thoroughly deserve their semi-final spot.”
Pakistan’s lead bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, took four wickets for 30 runs in his four-over spell, yet his efforts were overshadowed by England’s successful chase in 19.1 overs.
This victory not only propelled Harry Brook’s England team into the semi-finals with four points but also left Pakistan in a precarious position. With only one point from two matches, following a washout against New Zealand, Pakistan’s hopes hinge on a win against Sri Lanka in their final game, scheduled for February 28 at the same venue. They can only reach a maximum of three points, awaiting favorable outcomes from other teams and the weather for a chance at the semi-finals.