A Harry Brook masterclass has propelled England into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals as the first qualifier. The defending champions overcame Pakistan by two wickets in a high-stakes Super-8 encounter at Pallekele, sealing their place in the final four.
Set 165 to win, England wobbled at 8 for 164 but Brook’s unbeaten 100 off 51 balls – laced with 10 fours and 4 sixes – guided them home in 19.1 overs. Jacks’ 28 off 23 added momentum in the chase.
Pakistan’s attack was led by Afridi’s fiery 4/30, with Nawaz and Tariq taking 2 wickets apiece. Their batting innings saw Farhan’s classy 63 off 45 anchor the total to 164/9. Azam (25), Zaman (25 off 16), and Khan (23 off 11) contributed, but early collapses hurt.
Dawson was England’s bowling hero, bagging 3/24 in his spell. Archer and Overton supported with 2 wickets each, restricting Pakistan effectively.
Building on their Sri Lanka rout, England’s back-to-back wins confirm semifinal progression. Pakistan, captained by Agha, must demolish New Zealand on the 27th and hope for miracles in other games to advance. This result intensifies the Super-8 drama.