Pakistan need to limit Sri Lanka to 147 runs or less, if they are to qualify for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals. The two teams are facing off in Group 2's last Super Eights clash in Pallekele on Saturday (February 28).
Sahibzada Farhan (100) and Fakhar Zaman (84) put on a record partnership of 176 runs for any wicket in T20 World Cup history to power Pakistan to a formidable 212/8. The Salman Agha-led side will have to win by at least 64 runs to stand a chance of surpassing New Zealand on net run rate and make the semi-finals.
Earlier, Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss and elected to field first. Pakistan made three changes from their previous playing XI, with senior batter Babar Azam, Saim Ayub and Salman Mirza not playing. Naseem Shah, Khawaja Nafay and Abrar Ahmed have been named in their place.
Sri Lanka made two changes with Kamil Mishara and Janith Liyanage coming in for Kusal Mendis and Dushan Hemantha.
Pakistan Vs Sri Lanka, ICC T20 World Cup 2026: Playing XIs
Pakistan: Salman Agha (c), Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq.
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara (wk), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.
