Overview:
With the Pallekele pitch likely to assist spin, conditions could play a key role. While Sri Lanka have home advantage, Pakistan’s urgency gives them a slight edge.
The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele will host Match 50 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Saturday, February 28, where Pakistan (PAK) will take on Sri Lanka (SL) in a crucial Super Eight clash. The contest is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM local time.
Pakistan’s path to the semi-finals hinges on this result after a setback against England, and a no-result versus New Zealand. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, are out of the qualification race after their loss to New Zealand. However, they will be eager to finish on a positive note.
PAK vs SL Match Details
| Fixture | PAK vs SL: 50th Match, T20World Cup 2026 |
| Date | February 28th, 2026 (Saturday) |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Toss time | 6:30 PM IST |
| Ground | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pallekele |
PAK vs SL head-to-head records in T20I
| Matches Played | PAK | SL |
| 29 | 17 | 12 |
Pitch Report
The surface at Pallekele has traditionally been batting-friendly in the Powerplay, allowing stroke-makers to settle down. However, as the game wears on, the track tends to grip, bringing slow bowlers into play. The average first-innings total here hovers around 175. With the dew factor under lights, chasing sides often find better value for their shots.
PAK vs SL Probable Best Performers
Key batter to watch out for: Sahibzada Farhan
Sahibzada Farhan has been Pakistan’s standout performer with the bat. The right-hander has piled up 283 runs in five outings, averaging 70.75 at a strike rate of 158.10. With a century and two fifties already under his belt, he currently tops the run charts and will once again be central to Pakistan’s batting hopes.
Key bowler to watch out for: Maheesh Theekshana
Maheesh Theekshana has been Sri Lanka’s go-to option with the ball this campaign. The mystery spinner has picked up 11 wickets from six outings and has consistently controlled the middle overs. With Pallekele expected to offer turn, Theekshana could once again play a pivotal role in breaking partnerships at crucial junctures.
PAK vs SL Match Prediction ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Pakistan enter this game under pressure after a loss to England and a rain-hit fixture against New Zealand. They have shown promise with the bat but need greater consistency in this must-win clash. Sri Lanka are already out of the semi-final race but will aim to finish strongly at home. With the Pallekele pitch likely to assist spin, conditions could play a key role. While Sri Lanka have home advantage, Pakistan’s urgency gives them a slight edge.
PAK vs SL Probable XIs
Pakistan (PAK): Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan(w), Salman Agha(c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Salman Mirza, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq
Sri Lanka (SL):Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka(c), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka