Pakistan clinched a tense 11-run victory over Sri Lanka in the 12th match of the T10 World Cup 2026, delivering a high-octane contest at the Docklands Stadium on January 1, 2026. The match was packed with explosive batting, dramatic collapses, and a match-winning all-round performance that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Batting first, Pakistan posted a competitive 130/7 in 10 overs, despite losing early wickets. Saud Shakeel (28 off 20) and Babar Azam (20 off 10) provided stability in the middle, but it was Shan Masood’s blistering 39 off just 12 balls that shifted the momentum sharply in Pakistan’s favor. His late assault ensured Pakistan crossed the 130-run mark, while Aamer Jamal (15 off 7)* and Shaheen Shah Afridi (10 off 5)* added valuable finishing touches. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was led by Wanindu Hasaranga, who picked up 4 wickets, but the damage had already been done.
In reply, Sri Lanka fought hard but fell short at 119/8, unable to sustain momentum throughout the chase. After early setbacks, Dimuth Karunaratne produced a sensational counterattack, smashing 56 off just 19 balls and briefly putting Sri Lanka back in contention. However, wickets kept tumbling at crucial intervals. The turning point came with Aamer Jamal’s devastating spell of 4/8 in 2 overs, which dismantled Sri Lanka’s middle order and halted the chase. Despite a late flourish from Oshada Fernando (21* off 7), Sri Lanka couldn’t close the gap.
Pakistan’s disciplined bowling under pressure sealed the win, with Jamal earning a well-deserved Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round impact. The victory strengthens Pakistan’s position in Group B, while Sri Lanka are left to regroup after another narrow defeat in the tournament.