Pakistan sealed a commanding 102-run victory over Namibia, securing qualification for the Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 in Sri Lanka.
The Men in Green needed a win to progress and delivered a comprehensive performance dominated by their batting and disciplined bowling attack across all stages of the innings.
Sahibzada Farhan starred with 100* off just 57 balls, becoming only the second Pakistani to score a T20 World Cup century, while Usman Tariq and Shadab Khan provided crucial breakthroughs.
Namibia struggled under pressure, losing early wickets, with Tariq, Shadab, and Salman Mirza dismantling their batting line-up efficiently and restricting the opposition to under 100 runs.
Bowling Performance
Pakistan’s bowlers dominated Namibia, restricting them to just 97 runs in 17.3 overs and securing a commanding 102-run victory, with Usman Tariq emerging as the top performer for the Men in Green.
Usman Tariq starred with four wickets for only 16 runs in 3.3 overs, dismissing JJ Smit, Ruben Trumpelmann, Bernard Scholtz, and Willem Myburgh, completing a clinical and decisive bowling performance.
Shadab Khan took three crucial wickets, including skipper Gerhard Erasmus and Zane Green, while Mohammad Nawaz and Salman Mirza provided important breakthroughs to maintain relentless pressure on the opposition.
Strategic Batting and Tactical Adjustments
Pakistan’s top order, led by Sahibzada Farhan, provided a strong foundation, while Salman Agha added aggression, scoring a quick 38 runs off 23 balls.
Babar Azam was held back temporarily in the batting order as Pakistan adjusted their strategy, allowing Shadab Khan to stabilize the innings during critical middle-order partnerships.
The side scored 199, Pakistan’s second-highest T20 World Cup total.
Looking Ahead to Super Eight Challenges
Pakistan will enter Group B, facing New Zealand, England, and host team Sri Lanka, starting with their first match at R. Premadasa Stadium on February 21, requiring continued focus and consistency.
