Pakistan registered a 5-run victory over Sri Lanka in the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Pallekele, but the win wasn’t enough to keep their campaign alive.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 212/8, powered by a record 176-run opening stand between Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. Farhan’s century — his second of the tournament — saw him surpass Virat Kohli’s record for most runs in a single T20 World Cup edition. However, a late collapse cost Pakistan crucial momentum.
Sri Lanka’s chase was led by captain Dasun Shanaka, who smashed 76 off 31 balls, and youngster Pavan Rathnayake, who struck a half-century. Shanaka’s fireworks in the final over nearly pulled off one of the greatest chases in T20 history, but Pakistan held on to win by 5 runs.
Yet, the victory was bittersweet. Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 or less to qualify for the semifinals, but once Sri Lanka crossed that mark, their fate was sealed. New Zealand and England advanced from Group 2, leaving Pakistan eliminated despite the win.
