The stage is set for a high-stakes Super 8 showdown ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 England will face Pakistan at the picturesque Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, February 24. With both teams eyeing a semi-final berth, the conditions at the Kandy venue could prove decisive in determining the outcome of this crucial Group 2 encounter.
England are heading into the contest full of confidence after a comprehensive 51-run win over co-hosts Sri Lanka in the first match of the Super 8. Despite scoring a modest total of 146/9, Harry Brook’s team produced a sensational bowling performance Sri Lanka out for just 95 runsWill Jacques (3/22) and Jofra Archer led the demolition.
Meanwhile, Pakistan have had a disappointing start to the Super 8 stage. Their first match against New Zealand in Colombo was abandoned due to persistent rain, forcing both teams to share points. The Green Shirts will be desperate to regain their momentum and pick up a vital win to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The Pallekele surface provides an interesting contest between bat and ball, the characteristics of which evolve as the match progresses. Initially, the pitch offers good pace and carry, allowing the batsmen to play strokes freely once settled. The fast outfield ensures value for shots, making stroke-play particularly beneficial.
However, as the game progresses, spinners come into play. The surface tends to be slower, and bowlers who pitch the ball up and create side-spin often have more success than those who rely on bounce.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium T20I stats & records
- Matches played: 34
- Matches won while batting first: 17
- Matches won by bowling first: 14
- Average score of first innings: 165
- Average score of second innings: 144
- Highest total recorded: 263/3 (20 overs) by Australia vs Sri Lanka.
- Lowest total recorded: 88 (16 overs) by New Zealand vs Sri Lanka
- Highest score chased: 184/2 (18 overs) by Sri Lanka vs Australia.
- Lowest score defended: 133/10 (16.2 overs) by Sri Lanka vs England
