Washed Out Opener, Crushing Defeat Next: Can Pakistan Still Reach the Semi-Finals?

Pallekele: Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 hangs by a thread after a dramatic two-wicket defeat to England in the Super 8 stage. With just one point from two matches, the 2009 champions now find themselves dependent on other results to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

Their opening Super 8 clash against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, forcing both teams to share a point. However, the subsequent loss to England — powered by a sensational century from captain Harry Brook — has left Pakistan staring at possible elimination.

England have already secured their place in the semi-finals from Group 2, becoming the first team to qualify.

Current Scenario: Pakistan on the Brink

Pakistan now have only one point from two matches. Their fate is no longer entirely in their own hands and depends heavily on the outcomes of upcoming fixtures involving New Zealand and Sri Lanka.

Here’s how the qualification equation stands:

If New Zealand Win Both Remaining Matches

If New Zealand national cricket team defeat both Sri Lanka and England, Pakistan will be eliminated — regardless of the result in their final match against Sri Lanka.

If New Zealand Win Only One Match

If New Zealand win just one of their remaining two games, and Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka in their final fixture, the qualification will likely be decided on Net Run Rate (NRR).

If Sri Lanka Beat New Zealand

A victory for Sri Lanka national cricket team against New Zealand would significantly boost Pakistan’s chances. In that case, if Pakistan beat Sri Lanka in their final match, the semi-final race could go down to NRR calculations.

Key Upcoming Fixtures – Group 2

• 25 February: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka (Colombo)
• 27 February: England vs New Zealand (Colombo)
• 28 February: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (Pallekele)

All eyes are now on the New Zealand–Sri Lanka clash, as a Sri Lankan victory could reopen the semi-final door for Pakistan.

A Nervous Wait Ahead

From a rain-affected start to a heart-breaking loss against England, Pakistan’s Super 8 journey has been turbulent. With their semi-final fate hinging on multiple variables, fans can only hope for favorable results before their decisive clash against Sri Lanka.

The road to the last four remains narrow — but not entirely closed.