England Secures Semi-Final Spot in T20 World Cup 2026: What’s Next for Pakistan?
England Dominates to Reach Semi-Finals
New Delhi: England has made history by becoming the first team to secure a place in the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after a decisive victory over Pakistan. This loss has significantly impacted Pakistan's chances of advancing.
Following a washout against New Zealand, Pakistan's prospects are now uncertain. With England already qualified, the competition for the last semi-final spot is now between Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand.
England kicked off their Super 8 stage with a solid 51-run win against Sri Lanka in Kandy on Sunday, followed by their triumph over Pakistan at the same venue on Tuesday. Captain Harry Brook shone brightly, scoring his maiden T20I century, making him the first captain to achieve this milestone in T20 World Cup history.
Path to Semi-Finals for Pakistan
For Pakistan to advance, they need specific outcomes. If New Zealand wins both their matches against Sri Lanka and England, Pakistan will be eliminated, regardless of their performance against Sri Lanka.
Conversely, if New Zealand loses both matches, Pakistan would only need to secure a win against Sri Lanka. A single defeat for New Zealand would also keep Pakistan's hopes alive, but it would hinge on their Net Run Rate.
In their match against England, Pakistan narrowly missed a chance to improve their Net Run Rate after a last-over defeat. They had a promising start, restricting England to 58/4 in the eighth over while chasing 166 runs.
Captain Brook, who was elevated to the No. 3 batting position, played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings alongside Sam Curran, forming a 45-run partnership. He later partnered with Will Jacks for another 52 runs, which shifted the momentum in England's favor. Brook celebrated his first T20I century with a six over cover and a four through mid-off.
By the time Brook was dismissed, England was close to victory at 155/6. However, they faced a brief scare, losing three wickets for just six runs. In the final over, England required three runs with two wickets remaining, and Archer sealed the win with a boundary through mid-wicket.