Pakistan’s hopes of reaching semi-finals dim

New Delhi: Pakistan’s position in the Super 8 round of T20 World Cup 2026 is becoming challenging day by day. In Colombo, New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 61 runs to make Group 2 all but clear. Meanwhile, England have already entered the semi-finals, while Sri Lanka is out of the competition.

England edge ahead in Group 2

England are on top in Group 2 with 4 points and their net run rate is +1.491. New Zealand has scored 3 points and has a net run rate of +3.050. Pakistan is at third position with only 1 point and its net run rate is -0.461. Sri Lanka are now at the bottom without any points. It is clear that Pakistan needs to not just win, but win by a huge margin.

New Zealand’s great victory

New Zealand, batting first, scored 168 runs, in response to which Sri Lanka was restricted to 107/8. Rachin Ravindra destroyed the Sri Lankan middle order by taking 4 wickets. This victory has taken the Kiwis closer to the semi-finals, which has further increased the challenges for Pakistan.

Will Pakistan reach the last-4?

Pakistan’s last match will be against Sri Lanka on 28 February. There will be a match between England and New Zealand on 27th February. If New Zealand loses to England and Pakistan beats Sri Lanka, both will have 3 points each. In this situation the decision will be taken on the basis of net run rate. Pakistan will have to register a crucial win and also pray that New Zealand loses by the stipulated margin.

Pakistan’s journey over?

If Pakistan loses against Sri Lanka, its journey will come to an end. If New Zealand beats England, Pakistan will have to be eliminated without playing the match. If the match between England and New Zealand gets washed out due to rain, then Pakistan’s win will also be in vain, as New Zealand’s points will be reduced to 4.

Salman Ali Aga’s team under pressure

Under the captaincy of Salman Ali Aga, the team will have to show both patience and aggression. The batsmen have to give a fast start and the bowlers have to take early wickets. The hope of reaching the semi-finals has now become a serious challenge, where every run and every ball counts. For Pakistan, this match is proving to be not just a competition but a battle of prestige.