The stage is set for a high-stakes Super 8 competition ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 England take on Pakistan at the picturesque Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, February 24. With both teams eyeing a place in the semi-finals, the conditions at this ground in Kandy could be decisive in determining the outcome of this crucial Group 2 encounter.
England go into the competition full of confidence after a 51-run all-out win over hosts Sri Lanka in their Super 8 opener. Despite posting a modest 146/9, they produced some sensational bowling from Harry Brook to bring the men together. Sri Lanka were all out for 95Will Jacks (3/22) and Jofra Archer lead the demolition.
Pakistan started the Super 8 stage unsuccessfully. Their opening match against New Zealand in Colombo was abandoned due to persistent rain and both teams were forced to share the points. The green shirts will be desperate for a crucial win to find their rhythm and keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The Pallekele surface offers an exciting contest between bat and ball, with characteristics that develop as the match progresses. Initially, the pitch provides good pace and carry, allowing the batsmen to play free shots after settling down. A fast pitch provides strike value and makes the hitting game particularly rewarding.
However, as the game progresses, spinners emerge. The surface tends to slow down and bowlers who lift the ball up and generate side spin have more success than those who rely solely on bounce.
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium T20I Statistics and Records
- Matches played: 34
- Matches won in first innings: 17
- Matches won in bowling: 14
- Average score in 1st innings: 165
- Average score in 2nd innings: 144
- Highest score: 263/3 (20 Overs) between Australia and Sri Lanka.
- Lowest Score: 88 (16 Overs) New Zealand vs Sri Lanka
- Highest Score: 184/2 (18 Overs) Sri Lanka vs Australia
- Lowest Score Defended: 133/10 (16.2 Overs) Sri Lanka v England
Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 – Fans react as West Indies thrash Zimbabwe by 107 runs in Super 8 at Wankhede.
