While Afghanistan has been eliminated from the group stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup, Pakistan's hopes of reaching the semi-finals remain intact. However, a big win against Sri Lanka in the final Super 8 match is essential.

T20 World Cup 2026

T20 World Cup 2026: While Afghanistan's journey ended in the group stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan remains in contention for a semi-final spot. However, their hopes now largely depend on the outcome of today's match.

Afghanistan, which reached the semi-finals in the last T20 World Cup, failed to repeat its performance this time. The team finished third in Group D and managed just four points. The defeats in the opening matches proved costly for Afghanistan. South Africa and New Zealand performed better in the group and secured a place in the Super Eight, while Afghanistan was eliminated from the tournament. Although the team attempted a comeback in the final matches, it could not compensate for the initial defeat.

Pakistan's hopes are still alive.

On the other hand, Pakistan's hopes of reaching the semi-finals remain alive, but the path is extremely difficult. England's victory over New Zealand on February 27th has made Pakistan's situation even more precarious. Now, Pakistan must register a big win against co-hosts Sri Lanka in their final Super 8 match. Currently, Pakistan is in third place in Super 8 Group 2 and needs to significantly improve its net run rate to overtake New Zealand.

What is Pakistan's qualification equation?

If Pakistan bats first, they must win by at least 65 runs. If Pakistan chases the target, they will need to finish the match in approximately 13 overs to gain the necessary net run rate advantage.

However, the threat remains for Pakistan. If the match against Sri Lanka is abandoned due to rain or Pakistan loses, New Zealand will advance directly to the semi-finals, and Pakistan's journey will end there. Therefore, today's match is like a final for Pakistan, where only a victory, not just a win, can propel them to the next round.