It’s now or never for the Pakistan national cricket team.
As the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup reaches its decisive phase, Pakistan face already-eliminated Sri Lanka national cricket team at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 28.
For Pakistan, the equation is brutally clear: win big — and then hope England do them a favour.
For Sri Lanka, pride is on the line. Playing at home, they will want to end their campaign in front of their supporters with a statement performance.
Super 8 Qualification Scenario: How Can Pakistan Reach Semi-Finals?
Pakistan are currently third in the group with one point and a negative Net Run Rate.
To qualify:
- England must defeat New Zealand.
- Pakistan must beat Sri Lanka convincingly.
- Net Run Rate could decide the final semi-final spot.
New Zealand hold a significant NRR advantage, which means Pakistan not only need victory — they need dominance.
It’s pressure cricket at its purest.
Pakistan’s Form: One-Man Show So Far?
Sahibzada Farhan has been Pakistan’s standout performer, scoring 283 runs including a century and two fifties. But beyond him, consistency has been missing.
Babar Azam hasn’t converted starts. The middle order has struggled to accelerate. The bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Usman Tariq, has shown flashes but lacked sustained control.
If Pakistan are to survive, this is the night everything must click together.
Sri Lanka: Playing For Pride
Sri Lanka started their tournament with promise but faded quickly. Consecutive defeats knocked them out of contention.
However, playing at home changes the mood. Expect intensity from Pathum Nissanka at the top and sharp spells from Theekshana and Chameera.
A relaxed, fearless Sri Lanka can be dangerous.
Head-To-Head Record (T20Is)
Total Matches: 29
Pakistan Wins: 17
Sri Lanka Wins: 12
Pakistan hold the historical edge, but knockout pressure often rewrites history.
SL vs PAK LIVE Streaming – T20 World Cup 2026
When and where will the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan match take place?
The match will take place on February 28, 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
What time will the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match start?
The match will begin at 7:00 PM IST.
Where to watch the live telecast of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match?
The match will be televised live on the Star Sports Network in India.
Where to watch the live stream of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match?
The match will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.
Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan (Predicted XI)
Sahibzada Farhan
Saim Ayub
Salman Agha (c)
Babar Azam
Fakhar Zaman
Usman Khan (wk)
Shadab Khan
Mohammad Nawaz
Faheem Ashraf
Shaheen Shah Afridi
Usman Tariq
Sri Lanka (Predicted XI)
Pathum Nissanka
Kamil Mishara
Kusal Mendis (wk)
Pavan Rathnayake
Kamindu Mendis
Dasun Shanaka (c)
Dunith Wellalage
Maheesh Theekshana
Dushmantha Chameera
Dilshan Madushanka
Dushan Hemantha
Pitch & Weather Report
Pallekele has offered balance this tournament. Early movement under lights for pacers, but as the game progresses, spinners get grip.
Evening conditions are expected to be warm and humid. Dew could influence the second innings, making chasing slightly easier.
Match Prediction
On paper, Pakistan are favourites. But form hasn’t matched potential.
If Pakistan bat first and post 180+, they control their destiny. If early wickets fall, Sri Lanka will sense opportunity.
Expect tension. Expect drama. Expect calculation with every boundary.
Because for Pakistan, this isn’t just another match — it’s survival.
