Pakistan’s semi-final chances are hanging by a thread as they take on hosts Sri Lanka in this must-win T20 World Cup 2026 clash.
Pakistan sit third in Group 2 with one point from two matches and must not only beat Sri Lanka, but win big to jump ahead of New Zealand on net run rate.
With Pakistan on -0.461 and New Zealand on 1.390, the math points to a win of roughly 65 runs or a chase completed in about 13 overs. England’s win over New Zealand has kept Pakistan alive, but anything less than a commanding result will likely send New Zealand through alongside England.
Head-to-head, Pakistan lead Sri Lanka 14-10 in T20Is, while their T20 World Cup meetings are tied 2-2.
How to Watch Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20 World Cup
Cricket fans in Pakistan can catch the action live on PTV and PTV Sports. For viewers preferring online platforms, the match will be streamed on Tamasha, Myco, and Tapmad, ensuring multiple viewing options across TV and digital.
Pakistan are likely to overhaul their XI for Saturday’s must-win Super Eights match against Sri Lanka in Kandy. Fast bowler Salman Mirza is expected to be dropped, with spinner Abrar Ahmed set to return after sitting out the group-stage games.
Wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay is also tipped to come back in, potentially replacing Mohammad Nawaz, while there’s talk Babar Azam could be rested and pace all-rounder Faheem Ashraf included.
