T20 World Cup 2026: Sahibzada Farhan’s Maiden T20I Hundred Powers Pakistan into Super 8s with 102-Run Win Over Namibia

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Colombo, Feb 18: Sahibzada Farhan delivered a career-defining performance as Pakistan crushed Namibia by 102 runs in Colombo to book their place in the Super 8 stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (February 18).

Coming into the must-win encounter after a heavy defeat to India, Pakistan responded in emphatic fashion. Opting to bat first, they piled up 199 for 3 in their 20 overs before bowling Namibia out for just 97 in 17.3 overs. The result also ended the United States' hopes of progressing from Group A.

Farhan Anchors and Accelerates

Opening the innings, Farhan scored a magnificent unbeaten 100 off 58 balls, striking 15 boundaries including four sixes. It was his first T20 International century, having previously fallen short despite nine half-centuries in the format.

Pakistan were 55 for 1 after eight overs, with Saim Ayub dismissed for 14 in the powerplay. However, the tempo shifted dramatically in the ninth over when Farhan smashed three sixes in a 22-run burst to seize control of the contest.

He found strong support from captain Salman Ali Agha, who contributed 38 from 23 balls, and Shadab Khan, who added a quickfire 36 off 22 deliveries to lift Pakistan to an imposing total.

Spinners Seal Dominant Victory

With a daunting chase ahead, Namibia struggled to build momentum against Pakistan's disciplined bowling attack. The spinners dominated proceedings, dismantling the middle order with regular strikes.

Usman Tariq starred with the ball, returning figures of 4 for 16, while Shadab capped off an all-round display with 3 for 19. Namibia were bundled out well short of the target, handing Pakistan a comprehensive victory.

The win secured Pakistan the eighth and final Super 8 berth, setting up a clash against New Zealand in the next round.

Farhan Tops the Charts

Farhan's maiden T20I century not only marked a personal milestone but also propelled him to the top of the tournament's run-scoring charts. He now has 220 runs in the competition, ahead of Aiden Markram (178) and Tim Seifert (173).

The result also extended Pakistan's dominant record against associate nations in men's T20Is. Apart from their dramatic Super Over defeat to the USA in the 2024 edition, Pakistan have now won 22 of their other 23 matches against associate teams.

With Farhan finding peak form at the right time, Pakistan enter the Super 8s with renewed belief and momentum.