England vs Pakistan – Harry Brook’s Century Seals Semi-Final Spot in T20 World Cup 2026 Thriller
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 delivered one of its most dramatic nights as England edged past Pakistan by two wickets in a nail-biting Super 8 clash at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy. In a contest that swung wildly between both teams, it was England skipper Harry Brook who stood tallest, smashing a remarkable 100 off just 51 balls to guide his side into the semi-finals.
Chasing 165 for victory, England stumbled early but found salvation in Brook’s fearless knock. With just three runs needed in the final over, Jofra Archer sealed the win with a powerful boundary, confirming England’s place in the knockout stage.
Match Summary
- Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy
- Match: Super 8 – Match 5
- Pakistan: 164/9 (20 overs)
- England: 166/8 (19.1 overs)
- Result: England won by 2 wickets
- Player of the Match: Harry Brook (100 off 51)
Pakistan’s Innings – Promise but Not Enough
Pakistan’s innings was a blend of solid rebuilding and missed opportunities. After losing Saim Ayub early, Sahibzada Farhan anchored the innings with a composed 63 off 45 balls. Babar Azam supported well with 25, while Fakhar Zaman added quick runs in the middle overs.
However, just as Pakistan looked ready to accelerate past 175, England’s bowlers pulled things back. Liam Dawson was particularly effective, claiming 3 wickets for just 24 runs. Archer and Overton chipped in with two wickets each, ensuring Pakistan were restricted to 164.
On a pitch that offered bounce but little turn, 164 felt competitive but slightly below par considering the stage and pressure.
England’s Chase – Chaos, Collapse and a Captain’s Masterclass
England’s chase began disastrously. Shaheen Afridi returned to form in style, removing Phil Salt and Jos Buttler early. When Jacob Bethell also departed, England were 35/3 and wobbling.
Enter Harry Brook.
Promoting himself to number three proved a masterstroke. Brook combined calculated aggression with intelligent strike rotation. He found boundaries when needed but also worked singles and twos to keep the required rate under control.
Sam Curran’s 16-run contribution provided brief stability, and Will Jacks chipped in with 28. But wickets continued to fall at the other end.
Brook, however, remained unfazed. He reached his maiden T20I century in a World Cup knockout-decider scenario — becoming the first England captain to score a T20I hundred and the first skipper in T20 World Cup history to reach the landmark.
The Final Over Drama
With three runs needed in the final over and two wickets in hand, tension filled the stadium. Mohammad Nawaz briefly threatened with a stumping that reduced England to 161/8.
But Jofra Archer stepped up. Salman Mirza bowled short, Archer pulled fiercely to deep mid-wicket, and the ball raced to the boundary. England won by two wickets, and celebrations erupted.
Key Performers
Harry Brook – 100 (51)
A captain’s innings under pressure. Brook balanced aggression with maturity, constantly manipulating the field.
Shaheen Afridi – 4/30
Delivered early breakthroughs and almost turned the match completely.
Liam Dawson – 3/24
Critical in preventing Pakistan from reaching 175+.
Turning Points
- Brook promoting himself to number 3
- Shaheen’s early burst reducing England to 35/3
- Dawson’s economical spell in middle overs
- Brook’s acceleration between overs 10–16
- Archer’s winning boundary
What This Means for Both Teams
England
England become the first semi-finalist of the tournament. While not flawless, they have consistently won key moments. They now face New Zealand with momentum on their side.
Pakistan
Pakistan’s qualification hopes now hang by a thread. They must defeat Sri Lanka and rely on other results to advance.
Stat Highlights
- Harry Brook – First England captain to score a T20I century
- First captain in T20 World Cup history to score a hundred
- England’s first successful chase against Pakistan in a Super 8 stage
- Brook now has centuries in all three formats
Expert Analysis
This match showcased modern T20 cricket at its finest — power-hitting, tactical bowling, and razor-thin margins. England’s approach of attacking through calculated risks paid off.
Pakistan’s bowling showed discipline, but their batting lacked the final push required at this level.
What’s Next?
England remain in Sri Lanka to face New Zealand in their final Super 8 fixture. Pakistan prepare for a must-win encounter against Sri Lanka.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who was Player of the Match in England vs Pakistan?
Harry Brook won Player of the Match for his 100 off 51 balls.
2. Where was the match played?
The game took place at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy.
3. What was Pakistan’s total?
Pakistan scored 164/9 in their 20 overs.
4. How did England qualify for the semi-final?
By winning this Super 8 match, England secured enough points to confirm qualification.
5. How many wickets did Shaheen Afridi take?
Shaheen Afridi claimed four wickets.
6. What made Harry Brook’s century special?
It was his maiden T20I hundred and the first by a captain in T20 World Cup history.
7. Can Pakistan still qualify?
Yes, but they must win their remaining match and rely on other results.