Kandy, February 24, 2026 – England became the first team to qualify for the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after edging past Pakistan by two wickets in a thrilling Super 8 encounter at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy, on Tuesday.
England captain Harry Brook delivered a sensational performance, smashing his maiden T20I century to guide his side to a dramatic victory. Chasing a target of 165, England were in deep trouble at 58/4 before Brook took control, scoring a magnificent 100 off 51 balls, including 10 fours and four sixes, to steer the former champions home in 19.1 overs. It was the highest individual score by an England captain in T20 World Cup history.
Pakistan Set 164 Despite Middle-Order Resistance
After being put into bat, Pakistan suffered early setbacks as England’s bowlers struck quickly. Opener Saim Ayub was undone by Jofra Archer’s pace and bounce, while skipper Salman Agha fell to left-arm spinner Liam Dawson, leaving Pakistan reeling at 27/2 inside four overs.
Farhan anchored the innings with a composed knock, adding 46 runs with Babar Azam (25) and 49 with Fakhar Zaman (25). He brought up his half-century off 37 balls and top-scored with 63 off 45 deliveries, hitting seven fours and two sixes.
However, Pakistan failed to capitalize in the death overs, losing key wickets in quick succession. From a steady 122/4, they collapsed to 149/8, eventually finishing on 164/8. Dawson starred with the ball, claiming 3/24, while Archer and Jamie Overton picked up two wickets each.
Afridi’s Fiery Spell Puts England Under Pressure
Defending a below-par total, Pakistan made a fiery start through Shaheen Shah Afridi, who dismissed in-form Phil Salt off the very first ball. Afridi continued his brilliant spell by removing Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell, leaving England struggling at 53/3 at the end of the powerplay.
Mystery spinner Usman Tariq added further pressure by dismissing Tom Banton on the first ball of his spell, pushing England deeper into trouble.
Brook’s Heroics Steal the Show
With England in disarray, Brook steadied the chase alongside Sam Curran, adding a crucial 45-run partnership. Brook displayed maturity and composure, rotating the strike smartly and punishing loose deliveries.
The decisive moment came during Brook’s 52-run stand with Will Jacks, which swung the momentum firmly in England’s favor. Brook reached his historic century in style, smashing a six over cover followed by a crisp four through mid-off.
Though Brook was dismissed at 155/6, England were within touching distance. Late wickets added drama, but Archer sealed the win with a boundary in the final over, sparking celebrations in the England camp.
Key Performers
• Harry Brook (ENG): 100 off 51 balls
• Farhan (PAK): 63 off 45 balls
• Shaheen Afridi (PAK): 4/30
• Liam Dawson (ENG): 3/24
With this win, England not only strengthened their dominance in the tournament but also became the first team to book a semi-final berth, while Pakistan now face a must-win situation in their remaining Super 8 fixtures.