Pakistan Defeats Sri Lanka Misses T20 World Cup Semis

Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by five runs on Saturday but were eliminated from the T20 World Cup. New Zealand advanced to the semifinals based on net run rate.

Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka finished the Super Eights stage with three points each, but New Zealand’s superior net run rate secured their place in the semifinals. England, New Zealand, and South Africa have already qualified for the semifinals.

Match Summary

Pakistan batted first, scoring 212 for 8 in 20 overs. Sahibzada Farhan contributed 100 runs, and Fakhar Zaman scored 84. Dilshan Madushanka took 3 for 33 for Sri Lanka, and Dasun Shanaka claimed 2 for 42.

In response, Sri Lanka reached 207 for 6 in 20 overs. Dasun Shanaka remained not out on 76 off 31 balls, and Pavan Rathnayake scored 58. Abrar Ahmed was the leading bowler for Pakistan, taking 3 for 23.

Final Moments

Pakistan had initially reduced Sri Lanka to 101 for 5 in the 12th over, appearing to be in a strong position. However, a partnership between Pavan Rathnayake and Dasun Shanaka helped Sri Lanka close the gap. In the final over, Shanaka hit four consecutive sixes off Shaheen Shah Afridi, putting pressure on Pakistan. Despite missing a scoop attempt and anticipating a wide call on the final delivery, Pakistan secured a five-run victory but were unable to surpass New Zealand’s net run rate.

Semifinal Qualification

England, New Zealand, and South Africa have secured semifinal berths. The final spot will be decided between India and the West Indies on Sunday.

Brief Scores

Pakistan: 212 for 8 in 20 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 100, Fakhar Zaman 84; Dilshan Madushanka 3/33, Dasun Shanaka 2/42).
Sri Lanka: 207 for 6 in 20 overs (Dasun Shanaka 76 not out, Pavan Rathnayake 58; Abrar Ahmed 3/23).