Harry Brook powers England into T20 World Cup Semi-Finals with win over Pakistan

England secured a dramatic two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Super 8 Group Two match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, booking their place in the semi-finals thanks to a magnificent century from Harry Brook.

In the fifth Super 8 fixture at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Pakistan batted first and posted 164 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. England chased down the 165-run target in the final over, finishing on 165 for 8.

Pakistan’s Innings

Pakistan made a disappointing start after electing to bat. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub could not build a substantial partnership, with Ayub dismissed for 7 at 14. Captain Salman Ali Agha followed shortly afterwards, scoring just 5 as Pakistan slipped to 27 for 2.

Babar Azam then steadied the innings alongside Farhan, adding 46 runs for the third wicket to take the total to 73 before Babar was clean bowled for 25.

Despite wickets falling at the other end, Farhan stood firm, bringing up a well-compiled half-century. He shared a 49-run stand with Fakhar Zaman for the fourth wicket, taking Pakistan to 122. Farhan was eventually dismissed for 63, striking seven fours and two sixes.

After his departure, Pakistan again lost wickets at regular intervals. Fakhar Zaman scored 25 before being dismissed at 132. Usman Khan (8) and Mohammad Nawaz (0) fell in quick succession, while Shaheen Afridi was caught on the boundary for 2 attempting a big hit.

Shadab Khan provided late impetus with an unbeaten 23 off 11 balls, helping Pakistan reach 164 for 8.

For England, Liam Dawson claimed three wickets, while Jofra Archer and Jamie Overton took two apiece. Adil Rashid picked up one wicket.

England’s Reply

Chasing 165, England’s top order faltered early. Phil Salt was dismissed for a first-ball duck, while Jos Buttler (2) and Jacob Bethell (8) also fell cheaply, all three wickets claimed by Shaheen Afridi as England slumped to 35.

Tom Banton (2) and Sam Curran (16) were also dismissed, leaving England in further trouble.

However, captain Harry Brook anchored the chase with a sensational knock. Playing with composure and authority, he smashed 100 off just 51 deliveries, turning the match decisively in England’s favour. Will Jacks contributed 28 valuable runs in support.

For Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi finished with four wickets, while Usman Tariq and Mohammad Nawaz claimed two each.

Brook was named Player of the Match for his match-winning century, as England reached 165 for 8 in the final over to clinch a thrilling two-wicket victory and advance to the semi-finals.