The excitement builds as match 50 of the T20 World Cup 2026 is set to take place between the Sri Lanka national cricket team and the Pakistan national cricket team. The game will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 28.
This is a crucial match, especially for Pakistan. The Men in Green must win to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive. Their qualification depends not only on winning but also on improving their net run rate. To move ahead of the New Zealand national cricket team, Pakistan need to either win by at least 65 runs while batting first or chase down the target within 13 overs if they are batting second. It is a tough task, and the pressure will be high. Playing against Sri Lanka in their home conditions will not be easy. The hosts are familiar with the pitch and weather, which could give them a slight advantage. Fans can expect a competitive contest as both teams look to give their best. There is good news regarding the weather.
Pallekele Weather
According to forecasts, there is very little chance of rain in Pallekele on match day. The temperature is expected to be around 18 degrees Celsius, making it a cool evening for cricket. However, humidity levels are likely to be around 74 per cent. Because of this, dew may become an important factor later in the game. Teams winning the toss might prefer to bowl first, as the ball can become slippery under lights, making it harder for bowlers to grip.
Pitch Report
The pitch at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is generally good for batting. Teams usually score well here, with the average first-innings total in T20Is being around 171 runs. In recent matches at this ground, chasing has worked well. The team batting second has won six out of the last 10 games, which shows that targets can be successfully chased down here.
The ground also has fairly long boundaries. The square boundaries are around 75 metres, while the straight boundary is about 80 metres. This means batters need to time the ball well to clear the ropes, especially down the ground.
Squads:
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga
Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq
