As Pakistan gets ready to play England in a key T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 match at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on February 24, 2026, local conditions are expected to be crucial. The pitch is likely to turn, making England’s leading leg-spinner, Adil Rashid, a significant challenge for the Pakistan batters.
In preparation for this vital game, experienced Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared tactical advice with the team led by Salman Ali Agha. He emphasizes the need to tackle England’s spin duo, Rashid and Liam Dawson. Ashwin suggests that insights can be gained from an unexpected source: the Nepal cricket team.
T20 World Cup 2026: R Ashwin outlines Pakistan’s strategy against England in Pallekele
Ashwin recommends that Pakistan should bring back Fakhar Zaman into the middle order to counter England’s spinners. Although Zaman has not performed well in the tournament so far, Ashwin points out his ability to handle high-quality spin with aggressive footwork and effective use of the sweep shot.
By including Zaman, Pakistan could disrupt Rashid’s rhythm. Rashid has taken eight wickets in the tournament but can be vulnerable to batters who target square boundaries. Ashwin mentions Nepal’s match on February 8, where their batters aggressively targeted Rashid, resulting in a wicketless 0/42 in just three overs. This bold approach almost led to a historic upset in T20 World Cup history.
“If Pakistan wants to make a serious run in this World Cup, they should consider giving Fakhar Zaman a chance in the middle order. He can use the sweep and his footwork effectively against Rashid and Dawson, causing significant damage in the middle overs. Nepal’s success against Rashid provides key lessons for other teams. Focus on square boundaries to create opportunities in the scoring zones,” Ashwin mentioned on X.
