Pakistan produced a commanding performance to defeat Namibia by 102 runs at the SSC Cricket Ground in their crucial ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash on Wednesday, ensuring progression to the Super Eight stage.
Batting first, Pakistan got off to a solid start as openers Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan scored freely, putting together a 40-run opening partnership. Ayub fell for 14 off 12 balls, but Farhan continued to pile on runs alongside captain Salman Ali Agha, who contributed 38 off 23 balls, forming a 67-run second-wicket stand.
Farhan’s sublime innings culminated in his maiden T20I century, reaching 100 unbeaten off 58 deliveries, with 11 fours and four sixes. Shadab Khan added 36 off 22 balls, supporting the late surge and helping Pakistan post a challenging total of 200.
Notably, Babar Azam did not bat at number three; instead, Khawaja Nafay was sent in but was dismissed for five. Farhan’s innings ensured Pakistan maintained momentum and built a competitive total.
Impressive Bowling Performance
Chasing 200, Namibia struggled under disciplined Pakistani bowling. Openers Louren Steenkamp and Jan Frylinck provided a 32-run partnership, but early dismissals of Frylinck (9) and Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton (5) put them on the back foot.
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Usman Tariq led the bowling attack, finishing with figures of 4/16 in 3.3 overs, while Shadab Khan claimed three crucial wickets. Other contributors included Salman Mirza and Mohammad Nawaz, each taking a wicket. Namibia were bowled out for just 97 in 17.3 overs.
Key wickets included:
- Steenkamp (23) by Nawaz
- Erasmus (7) by Shadab Khan
- Zane Green (7) and Bernard Scholtz (1) by Tariq
Outcome and Impact
Pakistan’s victory secured six points from three matches, placing them comfortably into the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup. The all-round performance highlighted both Farhan’s batting brilliance and Tariq-Shadab’s bowling dominance, proving pivotal in a high-pressure encounter.
With this win, Pakistan now prepares for their next challenge in the Super Eight stage, buoyed by both their batting depth and bowling strength.
