The Super Eight stage has erupted into high drama. England have stormed into the semi-finals, Pakistan's campaign hangs by a thread, records are tumbling,
and off-field turbulence is shaking the sport elsewhere. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka and New Zealand prepare for what is effectively a knockout before the knockouts. The margins are thin. The consequences are not.
Harry Brook's 100 Powers England Into Semi-Finals With 2-Wicket Win Over Pakistan
Harry Brook produced a match-winning century to guide England to a tense two-wicket victory over Pakistan in their Super Eight clash in Pallekele. Brook's 100 off 51 balls anchored the chase of 165 as England became the first team to qualify for the semi-finals. Shaheen Afridi's four-wicket haul threatened to derail the pursuit, but England held their nerve to maintain their unbeaten T20 World Cup record against Pakistan.
England also extended their remarkable run, making it five consecutive T20 World Cup semi-final appearances (2016-2026).
India-Pakistan Semi-Final Now Virtually Ruled Out
Pakistan's defeat to England has all but eliminated the possibility of an India-Pakistan semi-final. With England confirmed as Group 2 winners under the cross-over format, Pakistan can only realistically finish second at best. India, fighting for a similar position in Group 1, would therefore end up on the same side of the bracket. The only remaining route for a meeting between the rivals now lies in the final.
Italy Cricket Rocked by Sexual Harassment Allegations
Italy's cricket board has suspended women's cricket coordinator Prabath Ekneligoda following sexual harassment allegations made by a player. The Federazione Cricket Italiana confirmed an investigation is underway by the federal prosecutor, and the official has been provisionally suspended pending further findings. The development comes shortly after Italy's historic T20 World Cup debut.
Shaheen Afridi Sets Powerplay Record Despite Pakistan Loss
Shaheen Afridi delivered a devastating powerplay spell, taking three early wickets to rattle England's top order and finishing with four wickets overall. In doing so, he became the leading wicket-taker in powerplays in Men's T20 World Cup history with 18 scalps, surpassing Kagiso Rabada's previous record of 16. His effort, however, was overshadowed by Brook's century and Pakistan's late-innings collapse with the bat.
Michael Vaughan Praises Mike Hesson's Handling of Babar Azam
Former England captain Michael Vaughan lauded Pakistan coach Mike Hesson for tactically managing Babar Azam's role in the XI. Vaughan described Babar as an "insurance policy" at No. 4 - ideal for Sri Lankan surfaces where 150-180 totals are competitive - though he questioned whether that approach maximises Pakistan's chances in high-scoring contests. The comments highlight the delicate balance between cricketing logic and off-field dynamics within Pakistan cricket.
Harry Brook Joins Elite List With Fastest T20 World Cup Captain's Hundred
Brook's 100 against Pakistan is now the highest individual score by a captain in Men's T20 World Cups and the joint second-fastest century in tournament history (50 balls). He joins an elite group that includes Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum in the list of fastest hundreds on the global stage.
Sri Lanka Face Must-Win Test Against New Zealand
Sri Lanka enter a near must-win Super Eight clash against New Zealand under mounting pressure. After a heavy defeat to England exposed familiar batting frailties, the co-hosts must correct course quickly or risk elimination. New Zealand, with a stronger head-to-head record and greater batting fluency on flat surfaces, will look to exploit Sri Lanka's uncertainty on spin-friendly conditions.
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This stage of the tournament is unforgiving. Records fall, brackets reshape, campaigns tilt on a single innings. The semi-finalists are emerging - and for everyone else, time is running out.
