Pakistan had officially earned its spot in the Super 8 level of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, following a 102-run victory against Namibia today. The Men in Green produced their most clinical display of the tournament so far in an absolutely vital encounter at the Sinhalese Sports Club that put an end to the qualification hopes of the United States, with India becoming the second team to advance past Group A.
Farhan Ends the 12-Year Wait
A highlight was Sahibzada Farhan, the opener who signed on with a spectacular 100 off a mere 58 deliveries. Farhan was also the second Pakistani batter to mark a century in a T20 World Cup, following Ahmed Shehzad, who did so back in 2014. Beginning gingerly, Farhan raced madly, breaking 11 fours and 4 sixes. As the Pakistani innings followed, their first in the world ton, they recorded a remarkable total of 199/3.
Supporting Acts: Captain Salman Ali Agha made an important cameo with 38 off 23 balls, and Shadab Khan gave late-innings fireworks during the fireworks of undefeated 36 off 22 balls, including 2 giant sixes in the final over.
Usman Tariq: The Mystery
Defending 200, Pakistan’s bowling attack left Namibia unanswered. Although Salman Mirza's pace attack had been an early breakthrough with a dismissal of Jan Frylinck, it was Usman Tariq's "mystery spin" that decimated the middle order. Tariq finished with 4/15, outsmarting the Namibian batters with his variations. Shadab Khan also had a ball, hitting 3/19 to break up the resistance that was remaining underneath. Namibia was ultimately bundled out for just 97 in 17.3 overs with Pakistan at T20 World Cup history's largest margin of wins (by runs).
What Lies Ahead: The Super 8s
Pakistan lands in Group 2 of the Super 8s, where they will face New Zealand, England and Sri Lanka. The resurgence of the side comes after the team took a heavy loss to arch-rivals India earlier in the week, setting the stage for the 2009 champions to return to form now.
"It was a special moment for me to score a century on such a big stage," Farhan said after being made Player of the Match. “But the best gift is I’m glad we’ve reached the next round. The belief in the camp is back."
