T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan’s semi-final scenario after first innings

KANDY: Pakistan kept their hopes alive in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a strong batting performance against Sri Lanka national cricket team, but they still face a tough challenge to reach the semi-finals.

Pakistan are currently third in Group 2 of the Super Eights stage. To qualify, they must not only win this match but also win by a very big margin. They need to improve their net run rate and go ahead of New Zealand national cricket team in the points table.

Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka chose to bowl first after winning the toss. Pakistan made full use of the opportunity and scored a huge total of 212 runs for 8 wickets in 20 overs.

The star of the innings was the new opening pair. Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman gave Pakistan a brilliant start. They added 176 runs for the first wicket. Fakhar played an excellent knock of 84 runs from just 42 balls, hitting nine fours and four sixes before getting out in the 16th over to Dushmantha Chameera.

After Fakhar’s wicket, Pakistan suddenly lost momentum. They lost seven wickets in the final four overs, including Farhan. Farhan scored a superb 100 runs off 60 balls, with nine fours and five sixes. It was his second century of the tournament.

Now, Pakistan must bowl very well. To reach the semi-finals, they need to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 runs or less. Pakistan’s net run rate is currently -0.461, which is much lower than New Zealand’s 1.390. This means Pakistan need a big win to move ahead and secure a place in the knockout stage.