New Delhi, February 25 – England became the first team to secure their semi-final spot at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after defeating Pakistan, whose chances of qualification have been significantly impacted.
A defeat to England after a washout against New Zealand means Pakistan's fate is not entirely in their control. With England already qualified, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand will compete for the remaining semi-final spot.
England began their Super 8 campaign with a 51-run victory over Sri Lanka in Kandy on Sunday, followed by a victory over Pakistan at the same venue on Tuesday. Captain Harry Brook was the star of the show, scoring his first T20I century to guide his team to victory. He also became the first captain to score a century in T20 World Cup history.
Possible scenarios for Pakistan to reach the semi-final:
* Two wins for New Zealand (against Sri Lanka and England) would guarantee Pakistan's qualification, regardless of the result against Sri Lanka.
* However, if New Zealand were to lose two matches, Pakistan would only need to win against Sri Lanka, although a defeat for New Zealand would also open the door for Salman Ali Agha's team, depending on the Net Run Rate.
* A defeat in the final over against England prevented a victory based on Net Run Rate, although they will regret allowing their opponents to score 58/4 in the eighth over while chasing a target of 166.
* However, captain Brook, who was promoted to No. 3 in the lineup, combined with Sam Curran to form a 45-run partnership. He then partnered with Will Jacks in a 52-run partnership that ultimately secured the victory for England. Brook finished with his first T20I century, smashing a six over cover and following it with a four through mid-off.
* When Brook was dismissed, England were already close to victory, at 155/6. However, they lost three wickets in quick succession, adding drama to the final over. With three runs needed to win, and two wickets in hand, Archer pulled through mid-wicket for a four, securing the victory for England.
