Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has reached a critical stage, with the team facing a do-or-die situation in the Super 8 round. After their opening Super 8 match was washed out due to rain, Pakistan now must win their remaining fixtures to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Standing in their way is a daunting challenge—an opponent they have never defeated in T20 World Cup history.
Pakistan’s next match is against England at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, a venue that could witness history if Pakistan manage to break a long-standing jinx. The clash, scheduled for February 24, is crucial not only in terms of points but also for overcoming a psychological barrier that has haunted Pakistan for nearly two decades.
A Record That Haunts Pakistan
Pakistan first faced England in the T20 World Cup back in 2009. Since then, the two teams have met three times in the tournament, and Pakistan has emerged on the losing side on every occasion. Their first encounter came in the 2009 group stage, where England secured a dominant 48-run victory. A year later, during the Super 8 stage of the 2010 edition, England once again prevailed, winning by six wickets.
The most painful defeat came in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 final, where England beat Pakistan by five wickets to lift the trophy, denying Pakistan a chance at a second T20 world title.
England’s Overall Dominance
England’s superiority is not limited to World Cup encounters. In overall T20 Internationals, the two sides have faced each other 31 times, with England winning 21 matches, Pakistan nine, and one game ending without a result. This statistical edge further underlines the magnitude of the task facing Pakistan.
England have already registered a win in the Super 8 stage and appear to be in strong form. Pakistan, meanwhile, are under immense pressure, knowing that another defeat could effectively end their tournament.
As Pakistan take the field against England, the match represents more than just another Super 8 fixture. It is an opportunity to rewrite history, shake off a long-standing mental block, and revive their hopes of advancing further in the tournament. With high stakes and contrasting records, an intense contest is on the cards.
