Who: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
What: ICC 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup Super Eights
Where: Pallekele Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka
When: Saturday, February 28, at 7pm (13:30 GMT)
How to follow: Text commentary on Al Jazeera Sport from 10:30 GMT.
Pakistan face a decisive Super Eights match at the 2026 T20 World Cup, needing a significant victory over already-eliminated Sri Lanka to reach the semifinals. New Zealand currently holds second place in the group, but its defeat by England on Friday has opened an opportunity for Pakistan to climb into that spot.
Pakistan's campaign began with a nervy win over the Netherlands, followed by victories against the United States and Namibia. However, they suffered a heavy loss to India in Colombo. In the Super Eights, their first match against New Zealand was washed out, and they then lost to England.
Sri Lanka stormed to wins against Ireland, Oman, and Australia in the group stage but was shocked by Zimbabwe. In the Super Eights, defeats by England and New Zealand ended their semifinal hopes.
Pakistan must not only beat Sri Lanka but also improve their net run-rate to overtake New Zealand. To do so, they require a win by approximately 65 runs or more, or to chase the target in fewer than 13 overs. Fast bowler Salman Mirza stated, "It's a critical situation as reaching the semifinal is not in our control. But if we reach the semifinal, we have the capability to do better."
The teams last met in a three-match bilateral series in January, ending in a 1-1 draw. This will be their 31st encounter, with Pakistan winning 17 times and Sri Lanka 12, plus one no-result. In T20 World Cups, they have faced off four times, with two wins each.
Pakistan squad: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (captain), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq.
Sri Lanka squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara (wk), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera.
Source: www.aljazeera.com