Harry Brook struck a historic century in Pallekele to guide England into the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2026, sealing a two-wicket win over Pakistan in their Super Eights clash. The victory made England the first team to confirm a place in the last four and tightened pressure on Pakistan in Group 2.

Brook became the first captain to score a hundred in a men’s T20 World Cup, anchoring England’s chase of 165 with a commanding 100. His innings proved decisive on a spin-friendly surface where both teams struggled for sustained momentum.

Pakistan, who opted to bat first after winning the toss, posted 164 for 9 in 20 overs. Sahibzada Farhan led the scoring with 63, continuing his consistent run in the tournament. Babar Azam contributed 25, while Fakhar Zaman added impetus during the middle overs.

England’s bowlers restricted the total despite a late push from Shadab Khan. Liam Dawson was the most effective, returning figures of 3 for 24, while Jamie Overton claimed two wickets.

Afridi strikes early but Brook steadies chase

England’s reply began under pressure as Shaheen Afridi removed Phil Salt with the first ball of the innings. Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell also fell cheaply, reducing England to 58 for 4 inside the Powerplay.

Brook, batting at number three, countered with an aggressive approach. He scored 41 runs during the Powerplay and continued to attack Pakistan’s spin options while managing the chase. Usman Tariq and Afridi picked up key wickets to keep Pakistan in contention, with Afridi finishing with 4 for 30.

Brook reached his maiden T20 International century with a six and a boundary off Afridi before falling to a yorker in the same over. By then, England required only 10 runs.

England lost wickets late in the chase, briefly opening the door for Pakistan, but Jofra Archer struck a boundary in the final over to complete the win with five balls remaining.

The result leaves England unbeaten in the Super Eights and confirms their semi-final berth. Pakistan, meanwhile, must now rely on other results and net run rate calculations to remain in contention.

Brief scores:
Pakistan 164/9 in 20 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 63; Liam Dawson 3-24, Jamie Overton 2-26)
England 166/8 in 19.1 overs (Harry Brook 100; Shaheen Afridi 4-30)
England won by 2 wickets