Daijiworld Media Network – Pallekele
Pallekele, Feb 24: Skipper Harry Brook produced a scintillating century under pressure to steer England to a thrilling two-wicket victory over Pakistan in a Super 8 clash of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on Tuesday, sealing a semifinal berth.
Brook smashed a sensational 100 off just 51 balls, laced with 10 fours and four sixes, as England chased down Pakistan’s challenging 164 for nine with five balls to spare. The win marked England’s second successive triumph in the Super 8 stage, making them the first team to confirm a place in the last four.
Will Jacks chipped in with a crucial 28 to support his skipper in the chase, holding the innings together after early setbacks.
For Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi was the standout performer with figures of 4 for 30, while Usman Tariq claimed two wickets.
Earlier, Pakistan opted to bat and posted 164 for nine in their allotted 20 overs. Sahibzada Farhan top-scored with 63 off 45 balls, while Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman contributed 25 runs each.
England’s bowling unit was led by Liam Dawson, who returned figures of 3 for 24. Jamie Overton (2/26) and Jofra Archer (2/32) provided valuable breakthroughs to restrict Pakistan.
Brief Scores:
Pakistan: 164 for 9 in 20 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 63; Liam Dawson 3/24).
England: 166 for 8 in 19.1 overs (Harry Brook 100, Will Jacks 28; Shaheen Shah Afridi 4/30, Usman Tariq 2/31).