England’s thrilling victory over New Zealand in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has made the picture of Group 2 more interesting. After this result, Pakistan team is still in the race for the semi-finals, but the challenge before it is very difficult. On February 28, Pakistan will face Sri Lanka at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium and this match will decide who will reach the last four along with England from Group-2.
Semi-final dilemma between Pakistan and New Zealand
For Pakistan, this match is no less than a final. To reach the semi-finals, it will not only have to win, but will also have to win by a big margin, so that its net run rate can be better than New Zealand. At present, Pakistan’s net run rate is -0.461, while New Zealand’s net run rate is 1.390. New Zealand has 3 points in its account, while Pakistan has only 1 point. In such a situation, mere victory will not be enough for Pakistan, but the margin of victory will also play a decisive role.
If Pakistan bats first then it will have to beat Sri Lanka by at least 64 runs. At the same time, if Pakistan chases the target then it will have to finish the match within 13.1 overs. If it is not able to achieve the required margin in either of these two situations, then the New Zealand team will directly reach the semi-finals. Not only this, even if the match is canceled due to rain or any other reason, New Zealand will still get the advantage and will make its place in the last four.
England’s victory over New Zealand has changed the equations of the entire group. R of Colombo. In the match played at Premadasa Stadium, New Zealand batted first and scored 159 runs. In reply, England had a weak start and the team lost 6 wickets for 117 runs. However, after this, Rehan Ahmed and Will Jacques showed great patience and made an important partnership of 44 runs to give the team victory. England won the match by achieving the target in 19.3 overs.
England’s entry in the semi-finals
England have already secured their place in the semi-finals with 6 points and are on top of the group. Now all eyes are on the match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. This match will decide whether the other team to reach the semi-finals along with England will be Pakistan or New Zealand. Pakistan has a chance to create history, but for this it will have to perform strongly in every situation.
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