England will face Pakistan in the 45th match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele on 24 February. Both teams are fighting for important points in Group 2. This match is crucial for their semi-final hopes, and the winner will get a huge boost in the Super 8 round.
This article provides information about the England national cricket team and Pakistan national cricket team’s probable playing XIs for the 45th match of the tournament, possible team combinations and key players to watch out for at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.
England Playing XI vs Pakistan, Match No. 45, T20 World Cup 2026
Openers: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk)
Phil Salt and Jos Buttler will continue to open the innings for England. Salt’s aggressive batting will give England great starts in the powerplay, while Buttler’s experience at the top will be vital and provide stability. A strong start is important on a Pallekele pitch which may slow down later.
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Middle-order batsmen and all-rounders: Jacob Bethel, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks
England’s middle order is full of firepower and flexibility. Captain Harry Brooke leads the batting, while Tom Banton and Jacob Bethel provide the explosive batting. Sam Curran and Will Jacks will be crucial for them with both bat and ball against the Men in Green.
Bowlers: Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
England have variety and experience in their bowling attack. Jofra Archer will lead the fast bowling attack with raw pace and Jamie Overton will handle the middle overs. On the other hand, Adil Rashid will lead the spin attack, and Liam Dawson will assist the leg spinner later in the innings.
England’s playing XI: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethel, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid.
Pakistan Playing XI vs England, Match No. 45, T20 World Cup 2026
Openers: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub
Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub will once again be important for Pakistan at the top. It is expected that the aggressive approach of Farhan and Ayub will give a good start to the Men in Green. A strong opening partnership will be important on the Pallekele pitch which can help the spinners later on.
Middle-order batsmen and captains: Salman Ali Aga (captain), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Khawaja Nafay
The middle order is being commanded by captain Salman Ali Aga and star batsman Babar Azam. Usman Khan’s finishing ability will be key for Pakistan, while Khawaja Nafey brings power and flexibility, helping the team build or accelerate innings as required.
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All-rounders and bowlers: Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq
Pakistan’s bowling attack is balanced and versatile. Shadab Khan’s leg spin will be a big threat for England and then spinner Mohammad Nawaz’s spin can turn the tables in the middle overs. Salman Mirza and Faheem Ashraf handle the responsibility of powerplay and death overs. Pakistan’s biggest weapon will be Usman Tariq, especially if they are defending the target.
Pakistan playing eleven: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Aga (captain), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Khawaja Nafe, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq.
