Kandy, February 27, 2026 – Pakistan have been handed a crucial lifeline in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after England’s dramatic four-wicket win over New Zealand in Colombo. The Green Shirts now face a must-win clash against co-hosts Sri Lanka on February 28 to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Pakistan’s Semi-Final Scenario
Currently third in Group 2 standings with one point from two matches, Pakistan must achieve a significant victory to surpass New Zealand’s net run rate of 1.390. This would require beating Sri Lanka by approximately 65 runs or chasing down their total within 13.1 overs.
Pakistan’s own net run rate stands at -0.461, meaning any failure to win by a substantial margin would see New Zealand advance alongside England into the semi-finals.
England Stuns New Zealand
The lifeline for Pakistan came courtesy of England, who overcame New Zealand in a crucial Super 8 clash at the R Premadasa Stadium on Friday. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner’s decision to bat first backfired as the side managed only 159/7 in 20 overs, despite a spin-heavy England attack.
Middle-order batter Glenn Phillips top-scored for New Zealand with 39 runs off 28 balls, supported by openers Tim Seifert (35) and Finn Allen (29).
For England, spinners Will Jacks, Adil Rashid, and Rehan Ahmed each claimed two wickets, while Liam Dawson chipped in with one.
England’s Chase Highlights
England chased down the target in a nail-biting finish, reaching 160/6 in 19.3 overs. A 44-run unbeaten partnership for the seventh wicket between Will Jacks (32 off 18)* and Rehan Ahmed (19 off 7)* sealed the victory. Jacks struck four fours and a six, while Rehan hit two sixes and a four.
For New Zealand, Rachin Ravindra was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3/19 in four overs, with Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Glenn Phillips picking one wicket each.
What’s Next for Pakistan
With England confirmed in the semi-finals and New Zealand’s fate now dependent on net run rates, Pakistan’s Group 2 Super 8 match against Sri Lanka in Kandy on Saturday becomes a must-win encounter. Only a comprehensive victory can keep their semi-final hopes alive in the T20 World Cup 2026.
The stage is set for a high-octane showdown as Pakistan aim to capitalize on their lifeline and book a place in the last four.