Sri Lanka's hopes of making it to the semi-final of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 has hit a major blow following their defeat to England on Sunday. Dasun Shanaka & Co are still within contention and have the fortunes in their hands with two games left to play in the Super 8 stage. However, their NRR has taken a massive hit after the 51 run defeat in Pallekele.
If Sri Lanka defeat both Pakistan and New Zealand:
Sri Lanka finish on 4 points
Pakistan and New Zealand can reach a maximum of 3 points (depending on other results)
England could also reach 4 points if they win again
With two teams to qualify for the semi final from each Super 8 group, Sri Lanka have destiny in their hands if they have to make the final four.
However things get tricky should Sri Lanka fail to win either of the matches against Pakistan or New Zealand. Losses in both games will knock them out. Given the washout between New Zealand and Pakistan, a defeat to either of them will see Sri Lanka knocked out as well.
A win for either New Zealand or Pakistan in their remaining two games will bump them to 3 points, something Sri Lanka cannot reach if they fail to win another game.
The pace-spin duo of Jofra Archer and Will Jacks tore through Sri Lanka's top-order after Phil Salt's 40-ball 62 to set up a sensational 51-run win for England.
Jofra and off-spinner all-rounder Jacks turned the game on its head in the second half, leaving Sri Lanka tottering at 34 for five in the sixth over in a total domination of the powerplay. Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 95 in 16.4 overs.
