Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 5 runs but eliminated from World Cup

Pakistan secured a thrilling five-run victory over Sri Lanka national cricket team in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Kandy, but the win was not enough to seal a semi-final berth.

After winning the toss, the Sri Lankan captain invited Pakistan to bat first in the crucial encounter.

For the must-win match, Pakistan dropped Babar Azam, Saim Ayub and Salman Mirza from the playing XI. They were replaced by Naseem Shah, Khawaja Nafay and Abrar Ahmed.

Pakistan posted a formidable 212/8 in 20 overs, powered by outstanding knocks from Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman.

Farhan scored a brilliant 100, while Fakhar contributed 84 runs, with the duo stitching together a record 176-run partnership.

No other batter reached double figures. Khawaja Nafay made 2, Shadab Khan 7, while Mohammad Nawaz and Salman Agha were dismissed for ducks.

This marked Farhan’s second century of the 2026 T20 World Cup, making him the first player in the tournament’s history to score two centuries in a single edition.

Sri Lanka’s Chase

Chasing 213, Sri Lanka fought valiantly and managed 207/6 in 20 overs.

Captain Shanaka led the resistance with 76 runs, while Pawan Ratnayake added 58.

For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed claimed three wickets, while Nawaz, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi picked up one wicket each.

Pakistan Eliminated Despite Victory

To qualify for the semi-finals, Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 runs or fewer to boost their net run rate. However, the bowlers were unable to achieve the required margin, resulting in Pakistan’s elimination.

From Group 2, New Zealand national cricket team advanced to the semi-finals with three points and a superior net run rate, while England cricket team had already secured their place in the final four.

Despite the dramatic win, Pakistan’s World Cup campaign came to an end at the Super 8 stage.