Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semi-finals ended as bowlers failed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 runs. The loss in the Super 8 match in Kandy eliminates the Green Shirts despite a strong batting performance. This result hands New Zealand a semi-final spot alongside England, who had already qualified.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 212 runs for eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs, thanks to explosive innings from Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. Farhan scored a century while Zaman added 84 runs, giving Pakistan a competitive total. Their partnership raised expectations of a semi-final berth, as Sri Lanka needed 147 or fewer runs to allow Pakistan to qualify.
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However, the Pakistani bowling attack could not defend the target, allowing Sri Lanka to surpass 147 runs and secure victory. Despite early breakthroughs, Pakistan’s bowlers struggled with consistency and control under pressure. Sri Lanka’s batting depth proved decisive, ending Pakistan’s tournament ambitions.
As a result, New Zealand advanced to the semi-finals from Group 2 with three points and a superior net run rate. England had already secured its place in the final four, leaving Pakistan to reflect on missed opportunities and individual brilliance that could not change the outcome.
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The Green Shirts’ exit ends another T20 campaign without a semi-final appearance, raising questions about bowling strategy and execution in high-pressure matches. Analysts noted that while Pakistan’s batting impressed, future success will rely on improving bowling discipline and fielding efficiency.