Pakistan and Sri Lanka meet in a crucial Super Eight encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with contrasting motivations driving both sides into Match 50. While Pakistan remain mathematically alive in the semi-final race, Sri Lanka will play for pride as they look to close their home campaign on a positive note.
Match details
Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
Pakistan enter this match under significant pressure. The Salman Ali Agha-led side are yet to register a win in the Super Eight stage, a situation that has left their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Their campaign began with disappointment as persistent rain washed out their clash against New Zealand, forcing them to share a point. That was followed by a narrow two-wicket defeat to England, a game where Pakistan competed strongly but failed to close out key moments.
With just one point and a net run rate of minus 0.461, Pakistan now face a must-win scenario. Not only do they need to defeat Sri Lanka, but they also require England to overcome New Zealand. The margin of victory will be equally important, making Pakistan’s approach more aggressive than usual, particularly with the bat.
Sri Lanka, in contrast, have already been eliminated from semi-final contention. Despite showing promise during the group stage with wins over Ireland, Oman, and Australia, the Super Eight phase has exposed their shortcomings. Heavy defeats to England by 51 runs and New Zealand by 61 runs have left them winless, with zero points and a net run rate of minus 2.800.
As co-hosts, Sri Lanka will be keen to restore some confidence and end the tournament on a high. With nothing to lose, they could play a freer brand of cricket, which may make them a dangerous opponent despite their elimination.
Key players
For Pakistan, Sahibzada Farhan has been the standout performer of the tournament. The opener has amassed 283 runs in five matches at an average of 70.75 and a strike rate of 158.10, including one century and two half-centuries. Given Pakistan’s need for a big win, Farhan’s role at the top of the order becomes even more critical.
Pakistan’s bowling attack will rely heavily on Shaheen Afridi for early breakthroughs, while Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz must control the middle overs to keep Sri Lanka’s scoring in check.
Sri Lanka’s key figure remains Maheesh Theekshana. The mystery spinner has claimed 11 wickets in six innings and has been one of the few consistent performers for the hosts. On a surface that can assist spin, his spell in the middle overs could determine how competitive Sri Lanka remain.
Head-to-head record
Pakistan and Sri Lanka have faced each other 29 times in T20 internationals. Pakistan hold a narrow edge with 17 victories, while Sri Lanka have won 12 matches. There have been no tied games or no results between the two sides. Their most recent encounter took place in January 2026, underlining the familiarity between the teams.
Pitch report
The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium traditionally offers batting-friendly conditions in T20 cricket. Scores above 150 remain common, especially once batters get set. The surface provides good pace and carry early on, which can aid fast bowlers with the new ball. However, loose deliveries tend to disappear quickly. Spinners can play a role if they maintain disciplined lines, but overall, the pitch favours positive batting.
Probable playing XIs
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (captain), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (captain), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka
Probable match scenarios
If Pakistan bat first, they are likely to attack aggressively in the powerplay, aiming to post a total well beyond the par score to improve their net run rate. Sri Lanka will look to counter this with early wickets through Chameera and Madushanka. If Sri Lanka bat first, Pakistan will target early breakthroughs and try to restrict them below 160, setting up a chase that allows them to accelerate late.
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will air on JioStar Network channels and stream on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch via official sports broadcasters carrying ICC events and their digital platforms. In the UK, licensed sports television channels and their streaming services will provide coverage. Australian viewers can follow the match through authorised ICC broadcast partners and apps. Global audiences can access the game via official ICC television networks and streaming platforms.
Match prediction
Pakistan’s desperation and superior recent head-to-head record give them a slight edge, particularly if they bowl first. However, Sri Lanka’s freedom from pressure and familiarity with conditions could make this a closely fought contest. The team executing their plans better under lights is likely to emerge victorious.
