England will face Pakistan in Match 45 of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele on February 24. Both teams are fighting for important points in Group 2. The clash is crucial for their semifinal hopes, and the winner will gain a big boost in the Super 8 round.
This article provides the probable playing XIs of the England National Cricket Team and the Pakistan National Cricket Team for the 45th match of the tournament, likely team combinations, and key players to watch at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.
England Playing XI vs Pakistan, Match No. 45, T20 World Cup 2026
Openers: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (WK)
Phil Salt and Jos Buttler will continue to open the innings for England. Salt’s aggressive batting will give England a flying start in the powerplay, while Buttler’s experience will be key at the top, and he will provide stability. A strong start is crucial on the Pallekele pitch that could slow down later.
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Middle-Order Batters and All-Rounders: Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (C), Sam Curran, Will Jacks
England’s middle order is packed with firepower and flexibility. Captain Harry Brook leads the batting charge, while Tom Banton and Jacob Bethell offer explosive hitting. Sam Curran and Will Jacks will be crucial for them with both bat and ball against the Men in Green.
Bowlers: Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
England has variety and experience in their bowling attack. Jofra Archer will lead the pace attack with raw pace, and Jamie Overton will take care of the middle overs. On the other hand, Adil Rashid will lead the spin attack, and Liam Dawson will help the leg-spinner later in the innings.
England Playing XI: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (WK), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (C), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
Pakistan Playing XI vs England, Match No. 45, T20 World Cup 2026
Openers: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub
Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub will once again be key for Pakistan at the top. Farhan and Ayub’s attacking approach is expected to provide a flying start to the Men in Green. A strong opening partnership will be crucial on the Pallekele pitch that could assist spinners later.
Middle-Order Batters and Captain: Salman Ali Agha (C), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (WK), Khawaja Nafay
The middle order is anchored by captain Salman Ali Agha and star batter Babar Azam. Usman Khan’s finishing ability will be key for Pakistan, while Khawaja Nafay brings power and flexibility, helping the side build or accelerate the innings as needed.
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All-Rounders and Bowlers: Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq
Pakistan’s bowling attack is balanced and versatile. Shadab Khan’s leg-spin will be a big threat to England, and then spinner Mohammad Nawaz’s spin in the middle overs can turn the table. Salman Mirza and Faheem Ashraf take care of the powerplay and death overs. Pakistan’s biggest weapon will be Usman Tariq, especially if they are defending the target.
Pakistan Playing XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (C), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (WK), Khawaja Nafay, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq
