Pakistan face Sri Lanka in the 50th Match of Super 8 Group 2 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. With both teams fighting to stay alive in the semifinal race, this clash carries huge importance in Group 2.
Match Details
Match: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – 50th Match, Super 8 Group 2
Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele
Date: Saturday, 28 February 2026
Time: 7:00 PM Local / 7:00 PM IST
Live Telecast: Star Sports Network
Live Streaming: JioHotstar
Team Scenario
Pakistan
Pakistan are still in contention for a semifinal spot and must win this game to keep their qualification hopes alive. Their batting lineup has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency remains the key. The bowling attack led by Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan will need to deliver under pressure.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka have struggled in the Super 8 stage and need a strong finish to salvage pride. Their batting revolves around experienced players like Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka, while their spin attack could be crucial on the Pallekele surface.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan Probable XI
Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Khan (wk)
Sri Lanka Probable XI
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan, Dushan Hemantha
Pitch Report – Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
The Pallekele surface generally favors batters in the powerplay with good bounce and carry. As the match progresses, spinners come into play during the middle overs. A first-innings total of 160–175 is considered competitive at this venue.
Weather Report
Warm and slightly humid conditions are expected with temperatures around 26–29°C. No significant rain threat is predicted, so a full 20-over contest is likely.
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Maheesh Theekshana
Match Prediction
Pakistan enter this contest with slightly better balance and stronger pace options. However, Sri Lanka’s spin attack could create problems in middle overs. If Pakistan’s top order clicks, they start as slight favourites.
Prediction: Pakistan slight favourites in this Super 8 encounter.