T20 World Cup 2026: While Afghanistan’s journey in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 ended in the group stage itself, Pakistan’s team is still in the race for the semi-finals. However, their hopes now largely depend on the result of today’s match.
Afghanistan, which reached the semi-finals in the last T20 World Cup, has not been able to repeat its performance this time. The team stood third in Group D and could score only 4 points. The defeat in the initial matches has proved heavy for Afghanistan. In the group, South Africa and New Zealand have performed better and made it to the Super-8. Whereas Afghanistan had to be out of the tournament. Although the team tried to make a comeback in the last matches, the initial defeat could not be compensated.
Pakistan’s hopes still alive
On the other hand, Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals are still alive, but the path is very difficult. After England’s victory over New Zealand on 27 February, Pakistan’s situation has become even more critical. Now Pakistan will have to register a big win against co-host Sri Lanka in its last match of Super-8 at any cost. Currently, Pakistan is in third place in Super-8 Group 2 and it is necessary to make a big improvement in its net run rate to leave New Zealand behind.
What is Pakistan’s qualification equation?
If Pakistan bats first, it will have to win by at least 65 runs. On the other hand, if Pakistan chases the target, then it will have to finish the match within about 13 overs so that it can get the necessary increase in the net run rate.
However, the threat to Pakistan still remains. If the match against Sri Lanka is canceled due to rain or Pakistan loses, then New Zealand will directly reach the semi-finals and Pakistan’s journey will end here. In such a situation, today’s match is no less than a final for Pakistan, where not just a win but a big win can take them to the next round.