Pakistan crushed Namibia by 102 runs in Colombo, led by a superb unbeaten century from Sahibzada Farhan that confirmed Pakistan’s place in the Super Eight of the T20 World Cup.
Farhan steadied the innings early and then took charge, scoring 100 not out from 58 balls with 11 fours and four sixes. His acceleration was decisive, as his second fifty came from just 20 deliveries. By the end of the match, Farhan alone had scored more runs than Namibia’s total of 97.
Pakistan needed a win — or at least a washout — to stay ahead of the United States in the standings. They responded with their most convincing performance of the tournament, combining strong batting with disciplined bowling.
Mohammad Nawaz tightened the screws in the middle overs, finishing with 1 for 22. Shadab Khan and Usman Tariq then shared Namibia’s final seven wickets. Shadab made a key all-round contribution. Promoted to No. 5, he helped Pakistan score 78 runs in the last six overs and later took 3 for 19. A sharp diving catch at square leg by Saim Ayub to dismiss Zane Green highlighted Pakistan’s rising confidence.
Tariq, introduced in the 12th over, proved too sharp for Namibia’s lower order. His variation and control earned him career-best figures of 4 for 16.
Pakistan’s batting was not perfect. The powerplay again looked shaky, with mistimed shots and edges. But Farhan gradually found his rhythm. He reached his half-century in 37 balls and completed his maiden T20 international hundred 20 balls later — the third century of the tournament, a new record this year.
Salman Agha provided solid support with 38 from 23 balls. Although Pakistan slipped briefly to 118 for 3, Shadab’s late hitting lifted the total to a commanding 199 for 3.
Namibia started their chase positively, reaching 32 without loss after four overs. However, a run-out and quick wickets turned the match decisively. Once Shadab removed captain Gerhard Erasmus, the collapse followed quickly and the result was beyond doubt.
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