Pakistan made a strong statement in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener against the Netherlands as star players Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi produced a sensational boundary catch to dismiss in-form Dutch batter Michael Levitt. The Group stage match was played at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on February 7, 2026.
The highlight moment came early in the innings during Mohammad Nawaz’s first over. Michael Levitt attempted a powerful shot that looked certain to clear the boundary for six. However, Babar Azam showed exceptional awareness and athleticism by leaping near the boundary rope, stopping the ball, and quickly throwing it back inside to Shaheen Shah Afridi, who completed a clean catch. The crowd erupted as Pakistan removed a dangerous batter with brilliant teamwork.
Before his dismissal, Michael Levitt played a quick and impactful knock, scoring 24 runs off just 15 balls, which included three boundaries and one six. His aggressive start gave the Netherlands early momentum and put pressure on the Pakistani bowlers.
The Dutch openers provided a fiery start, helping the Netherlands reach 100 runs in the 13th over. Captain Scott Edwards added to the momentum by hitting a six off Mohammad Nawaz. However, Pakistan quickly regained control as Nawaz struck back by dismissing Bas de Leede for 30 off 25 balls, making the score 105 for four. Abrar Ahmed continued the comeback by removing Scott Edwards, who scored 37 off 29 balls.
Saim Ayub then played a key role in tightening the game for Pakistan. He dismissed Logan van Beek for a first-ball duck and followed it up by removing Zach Lion-Cachet for nine runs, pushing the Netherlands into deeper trouble at 129 for seven.
Despite their strong start, the Netherlands could not maintain the momentum as Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack took charge. The Green Shirts bowled out the Dutch side for 147 runs in 19.5 overs, showing excellent control and teamwork in the middle and death overs.
Salman Mirza led Pakistan’s bowling performance with an impressive spell, finishing with three wickets for 24 runs in 3.5 overs. Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, and Saim Ayub each picked up two wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi also chipped in with one wicket to complete a dominant bowling display.
Historically, Pakistan has dominated the Netherlands in T20 internationals. The two teams have faced each other twice in T20Is, with Pakistan winning both matches, while the Netherlands are still searching for their first victory against the Men in Green.
With a sharp fielding effort, disciplined bowling, and moments of individual brilliance, Pakistan started their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign on a positive note, setting the tone for the matches ahead.