In a thrilling encounter at Pallekele, England edged out Pakistan by 2 wickets to secure their spot in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals. Captain Harry Brook emerged as the undisputed hero, etching his name in the history books by becoming the first skipper to notch up a century in the tournament.
Batting at number three after Phil Salt’s early dismissal on the first ball, Brook unleashed a masterful innings. Facing 51 deliveries, he bludgeoned his way to 100 runs, smashing 10 fours and 4 sixes at a blistering strike rate of 196. This knock not only marked his maiden T20I hundred but also surpassed Chris Gayle’s long-standing record of 98 runs as captain against India in 2010.
With openers Salt and Jos Buttler falling cheaply, Brook anchored one end solidly. He forged a crucial 45-run stand for the fifth wicket with Sam Curran and later a half-century partnership with Will Jacks, steering England home in a chase that went down to the wire.
Earlier, Pakistan posted 164 for 9, powered by Sahibzada Farhan’s gritty 63 off quality strokeplay including 7 fours and 2 sixes. However, the rest of the lineup faltered. Babar Azam managed 25 off 24, Fakhar Zaman 25 off 16, and Shadab Khan a late 23 off 11, but it wasn’t enough.
England’s bowlers struck back led by Liam Dawson’s economical 3 for 24. Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton claimed two wickets apiece, setting the stage for Brook’s heroics. This victory underscores England’s depth and Brook’s leadership under pressure, positioning them strongly for the semi-final showdown.