Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20 World Cup 2026 Match Preview – February 28, 2026

Match Details

• Teams: Pakistan (PAK) vs Sri Lanka (SL)
• Match: 50th Match, Super 8 Group 2 Y3 vs Y4
• Series: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
• Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM LOCAL / 1:30 PM GMT
• Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele
• Stadium Capacity: 35,000
• Hosts To: Kandurata

Match Overview

The 50th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 promises to be a thrilling encounter as Pakistan faces Sri Lanka in a crucial Super 8 clash at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Both teams are vying for a place in the semifinals, and the outcome of this match could determine their fate in the tournament.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Pakistan, despite their talent-laden squad, have had a mixed tournament so far. Their last match saw them lose to England by just two wickets, with Sahibzada Farhan scoring a crucial 63 and Shaheen Afridi picking up four wickets. However, they will need to be more consistent in both batting and bowling to secure a win.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, suffered a heavy 61-run defeat against New Zealand in their last outing. They managed only 107 in reply to New Zealand’s 168, with Kamindu Mendis scoring 31 in 23 balls. The bowlers, particularly Dushmantha Chameera and Maheesh Theekshana, were in good form, taking three wickets each. Sri Lanka will look to bounce back with a strong performance.

Key Players to Watch

Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) – A crucial middle-order batter for Pakistan, Farhan has been in good form, scoring 297 runs in his last 9 games, including a notable 63 against New Zealand.

Pathum Nissanka (SL) – Sri Lanka’s top-order batter, Nissanka has been in excellent touch, scoring 288 runs in his last 10 games at a strike rate of 150. His ability to accelerate the innings could be vital.

Maheesh Theekshana (SL) – A wicket-taking leg-spinner, Theekshana has taken 12 wickets in his last 9 games at an economy of 7.48. His ability to break partnerships can turn the game in Sri Lanka’s favor.

Dushmantha Chameera (SL) – A T20 specialist, Chameera has taken 14 wickets in his last 6 games, including three against New Zealand. His yorkers and slower deliveries are a nightmare for batsmen.

Usman Tariq (PAK) – A rising star in Pakistan’s bowling unit, Tariq has taken 12 wickets in his last 5 games, including two against England. He is a key player on turning surfaces.

Stadium and Scoring Pattern

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is a balanced venue that rewards well-disciplined batting and accurate bowling. The pitch tends to assist spinners in the middle overs, making it crucial for teams to manage the run rate effectively.

• Average 1st Innings Score: ~160-170
• Powerplay Runs: 40-50
• Spinners' Role: Significant in the middle and death overs
• Boundary Distance: Medium, with good pace for big shots

Playing XI Predictions

Pakistan (PAK)

1. Salman Ali Agha (C)
2. Saim Ayub
3. Babar Azam
4. Fakhar Zaman
5. Agha Salman
6. Usman Khan (WK)
7. Mohammad Nawaz
8. Shaheen Shah Afridi
9. Naseem Shah
10. Shadab Khan
11. Usman Tariq

Bench: Sahibzada Farhan, Khawaja Nafay, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza

Sri Lanka (SL)

1. Pathum Nissanka
2. Kamil Mishara (WK)
3. Charith Asalanka
4. Pavan Rathnayake
5. Kamindu Mendis
6. Dasun Shanaka (C)
7. Dushan Hemantha
8. Dunith Wellalage
9. Dushmantha Chameera
10. Maheesh Theekshana
11. Dilshan Madushanka

Bench: Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Jihan Liyanage, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan

Match Prediction

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams having the firepower to win. Sri Lanka, with their spin-heavy attack and experienced batters, could capitalize on the turning surface. However, Pakistan are not to be underestimated with their explosive batting and pace threat.

Toss Prediction: Pakistan

Match Winner Prediction: Sri Lanka

Broadcast Details

The match will be broadcast live across several international platforms:

• Willow TV USA
• Fox Sports Australia
• Sky Sports UK
• Star Sports India
• SuperSport South Africa

Conclusion

February 28 marks a pivotal moment in the T20 World Cup 2026 as Pakistan and Sri Lanka clash in a must-win encounter. With both teams having the ability to outplay each other, fans can look forward to a high-octane contest that could go either way. Don’t miss the action at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium at 7:00 PM LOCAL / 1:30 PM GMT.
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