New Delhi: Sri Lanka has once been completely eliminated from the race for the semi-finals of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The Sri Lankan team will now squatter Pakistan on Saturday (February 28) at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. While this match may be a sufferer rubber for Sri Lanka, it holds immense significance for the tournament. The fate of Pakistan and New Zealand hinges on this match.
What is the situation in the Super 8?
In fact, New Zealand is in second place in Group 2 of the Super 8s with 3 points and a net run rate of 1.390. Pakistan is currently in third place with 1 point and a net run rate of -0.461. New Zealand has played all its matches, while Pakistan has one last chance. To reach the semi-finals, Pakistan will have to win by at least 64 runs or well-constructed the ventilator in 13.1 overs. This seems difficult on paper, but given Pakistan's reputation for unexpected comebacks in ICC tournaments, it cannot be completely ruled out.
This match is insignificant for Sri Lanka in terms of the tournament, but it is extremely sensitive from both moral and economic perspectives. If Sri Lanka plays at full strength, Pakistan will be eliminated from the tournament. In such a scenario, the semi-finals and final will be shifted entirely to India. In the event of Pakistan's semi-final or final, Sri Lanka will host two knockout matches. In such a scenario, the first semi-final (March 4) and the final (March 8) will be played in Colombo.
What if both India and Pakistan enter semifinals?
If both Pakistan and India whop to the knockout rounds, the tournament's excitement will increase. If both India and Pakistan reach the final, the title match will moreover be held in Colombo. This match could generate significant revenue through gate money, hotel bookings, tourism, and broadcasting. A high-voltage match could strengthen the Sri Lankan board's financial position.
What well-nigh Sri Lanka?
Representing the country is a matter of honor for any player. If the perception is created that Sri Lanka deliberately played poorly for financial gain, it could seriously forfeiture its image. Tournaments like the World Cup are based on the integrity of the game and the spirit of competition. Therefore, any compromise could forfeiture cricket's reputation globally.
In the current T20 World Cup, all of Pakistan's matches were held in Sri Lanka. Previously, in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India played all its matches in Dubai. Pakistan was the tournament host then. The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) and the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) have well-set in principle that India will not travel to Pakistan to play matches. Meanwhile, the Pakistani team will not play its matches in India. Now, if Sri Lanka appears to compromise the spirit of the game for financial gain, this controversy could deepen.
