The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just delivered its most heart-stopping match yet! On February 24, 2026, Pallekele witnessed a legendary battle where England secured a nail-biting 2-wicket victory over Pakistan, becoming the first team to qualify for the semi-finals.
Match Summary: ENG vs PAK Super 8s
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first on a tricky Kandy surface. While they posted a competitive total, it was the Harry Brook Show that stole the headlines during the chase.
| Team | Score | Key Performers |
| Pakistan | 164/9 (20 Overs) | Sahibzada Farhan: 63 (45)
Shaheen Afridi: 4/30 |
| England | 166/8 (19.1 Overs) | Harry Brook: 100 (51)
Liam Dawson: 3/24 |
The Night Records Shattered
1. Harry Brook’s “Captain’s Knock”
England’s chase started in disaster. Shaheen Shah Afridi was on fire, removing Phil Salt for a golden duck and leaving England reeling at 58/4.
- The Record: Harry Brook smashed 100 off just 51 balls.
- History Made: He became the first captain ever to score a century in a T20 World Cup match.
- Impact: His century included 10 fours and 4 massive sixes, single-handedly keeping England in the hunt.
2. Pakistan’s Bowling Fightback
Even with Brook’s ton, Pakistan didn’t give up. Shaheen Afridi (4/30) and the spinners created late drama. When Brook fell in the 17th over, England still needed 10 runs. A flurry of late wickets left England needing 3 runs from the final over with only 2 wickets left. Jofra Archer eventually sealed it with a boundary!
3. Sahibzada Farhan: The Lone Warrior
For Pakistan, Sahibzada Farhan continued his dream tournament form, scoring a brilliant 63 off 45 balls. Despite solid starts from Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, Pakistan’s middle order crumbled against Liam Dawson’s spin (3/24), preventing them from reaching a 180+ total.
Points Table: What’s Next for Pakistan?
With this win, England is officially through to the semi-finals with 4 points.
Pakistan’s Semi-Final Scenario: The “Men in Green” are now in a must-win situation.
- They must beat Sri Lanka on February 28.
- They need New Zealand to lose at least one of their remaining matches.
- Their Net Run Rate (NRR) will be crucial, so a big win against Sri Lanka is the only way forward.
Man of the Day: Harry Brook’s 50-ball hundred is the second-fastest in T20 World Cup history, second only to Chris Gayle’s 47-ball effort!
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