Pakistan’s route to the semi-finals has opened up following England’s victory over New Zealand. The result has worked in Pakistan’s favour, keeping qualification within reach. However, the final step now rests entirely in their own hands.
To advance to the last four, Pakistan must register a convincing win against Sri Lanka in their final Super Eight fixture. A narrow victory will not be sufficient. Their Net Run Rate must surpass New Zealand’s mark of 1.390, which means the margin of victory becomes just as important as the two points on offer. Any outcome other than a win — including a no-result — would bring Pakistan’s campaign to an end.
Match Details PAK vs SL T20 World Cup 2026
- Match: Pakstan vs SriLanka Match 50
- Stage: Super 8 Group 2
- Date: February 28, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM IST
- Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele
- Format: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Head-to-Head in T20Is – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
- Matches Played: 29
- Pakistan Wins: 17
- Sri Lanka Wins: 12
- No Result: 0
Pakistan hold the overall advantage in T20 Internationals, though Sri Lanka have been competitive in key tournament clashes.
Pitch Report – Kandy
The Kandy surface has provided balanced conditions this tournament. Fast bowlers may find slight assistance with the new ball early on, while spinners are expected to influence the middle overs with some grip from the pitch.
Scores between 160 and 175 have been competitive at this venue. Teams could prefer chasing under lights, but with dry weather forecast, conditions should remain steady across both innings.
Weather Conditions Favour Full Contest
Encouragingly for Pakistan, weather forecasts suggest no interruptions. The skies in Kandy are expected to remain clear, with dry conditions prevailing throughout match hours. Temperatures are likely to stay in the mid-20°C range, offering comfortable playing conditions and reducing the risk of delays. With no rain threat looming, both sides can prepare for a full 40-over contest.
Team Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka (capt), Charith Asalanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dushan Hemantha, Janith Liyanage, Dilshan Madushanka, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Pramod Madushan, Pavan Rathnayake, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage.
Pakistan
Salman Agha (cap), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wk), Usman Tariq.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Match Prediction
Pakistan’s stronger head-to-head record and overall squad depth give them the edge in this crucial encounter.
- Predicted Winner: Pakistan
Final Word
Pakistan’s situation is clear: victory by a substantial margin is the only path forward. With favourable weather and a balanced head-to-head record, the stage is set for a decisive encounter. Execution under pressure will determine whether their semi-final aspirations become reality.
