Pakistan’s campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup came to a dramatic end on Saturday, as they were eliminated despite securing a five-run victory over Sri Lanka national cricket team in their final Super Eight Group 2 clash.
Led by Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan finished level on three points with New Zealand national cricket team. However, the Blackcaps progressed to the semi-finals owing to a superior Net Run Rate (NRR). Pakistan’s fate was effectively sealed during Sri Lanka’s chase when the Lankans crossed 148 — a benchmark that ensured Pakistan could no longer overhaul New Zealand’s NRR, regardless of the final result.
Farhan, Fakhar Power Pakistan to 212
Earlier in the evening at Pallekele, Pakistan produced one of their finest batting displays of the tournament. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman stitched together a breathtaking 176-run partnership — the highest opening stand in the tournament’s history.
Farhan was the star of the show, smashing a sensational 100 off 60 deliveries. The knock made him the first player to score two centuries in a single edition of the T20 World Cup. Fakhar provided explosive support, hammering 84 off just 42 balls as Pakistan piled up an imposing 212 for 8 in their 20 overs after being put in to bat.
Shanaka’s Blitz Not Enough
Chasing 213, Sri Lanka fought valiantly, led by captain Dasun Shanaka, who delivered a blistering 76 not out off 31 balls. His late assault included a boundary and three consecutive sixes off Shaheen Afridi in the final over, raising hopes of a remarkable finish.
However, despite Shanaka’s heroics, Sri Lanka fell short by five runs. The narrow win, though thrilling, proved insufficient for Pakistan’s progression.
A Bittersweet Exit
Pakistan’s exit will be remembered as one of the tournament’s most bittersweet moments — a dominant batting performance overshadowed by the unforgiving mathematics of Net Run Rate. While Farhan’s record-breaking exploits and the historic opening partnership will be celebrated, the team’s campaign ultimately ended in heartbreak.
