New Zealand’s net run rate stood at 1.390, compared to Pakistan’s -0.461. As a result, Pakistan need to win by roughly 64 runs. Anything short of that will send New Zealand through. The scale of the task means Pakistan have to balance control with urgency from the outset.
Attention is centred on Pakistan’s batting approach. Through this tournament, their middle overs have often slowed. In a match where margins matter, that strategy is under review. Captain Salman Agha, playing his 50th T20I as Pakistan skipper, come into the game with 60 runs in five innings. His tactical decisions and personal form were under scrutiny. Debate also surrounds the composition of the Pakistan batting line-up, including Babar Azam’s role and whether more aggressive options should be considered.
Sri Lanka, though out of the race, have individual narratives at play. Dunith Wellalage continues to strengthen his standing within the squad. Against a Pakistan top order dominated by right-hand batters, his left-arm spin offers a key match-up. Kusal Mendis is unlikely to feature due to hamstring stiffness, leading to changes at the top.
The pitch in Pallekele had earlier provided movement for seamers. With dry weather in Kandy, similar conditions are expected. That raises the importance of powerplay phases with both bat and ball.
Historically, Pakistan have not recorded such a large-margin win against a Full Member at a T20 World Cup when batting first, and only once while chasing, in 2009.
Pakistan playing XI: Salman Agha (c), Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq.
Sri Lanka playing XI: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara (wk), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.
