In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan has been eliminated from the T20 World Cup despite securing a narrow five-run victory against Sri Lanka in their Group Two Super 8s match held in Pallekele on Saturday. The team's exit was sealed by an inferior net run-rate, which prevented them from advancing to the semi-finals alongside group winners England.
Record-Breaking Opening Stand
Pakistan posted a formidable total of 212 for eight, largely thanks to a spectacular opening partnership between Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. Farhan smashed a blistering century off just 60 balls, while Zaman contributed a solid 84 runs. Their 176-run stand set a new record for the highest opening partnership in T20 World Cup history, showcasing Pakistan's batting prowess on the day.
Net Run-Rate Calculation
Despite the impressive score, Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 runs or fewer to surpass New Zealand on net run-rate and secure a semi-final spot. However, Sri Lanka's resilient batting lineup, led by Pavan Rathnayake with 58 runs and Dasun Shanaka's explosive unbeaten 76 off 31 balls, pushed the total to 207 for six, dashing Pakistan's hopes.
Thrilling Final Over
The match reached a nail-biting climax as Pakistan struggled to defend their highest-ever T20 World Cup total. In the final over bowled by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shanaka launched a fierce assault, hitting consecutive boundaries of 4, 6, 6, and 6. With six runs required off the last two deliveries, Shanaka missed a scoop shot on the fifth ball and left the sixth, a yorker, believing it was wide, sealing Pakistan's fate despite the win.
Semi-Final Lineup
With this result, England, New Zealand, and South Africa have confirmed their places in the semi-finals. The final spot will be decided on Sunday in a match between India and West Indies, adding to the tournament's suspense.
This story will be updated with further developments as the T20 World Cup progresses.
