In a do-or-die encounter in Group A of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Pakistan confirmed their place in the Super 8 stage with a dominant 102-run victory over Namibia in Colombo on Wednesday. The win made Pakistan the eighth and final side to advance to the next phase of the tournament, keeping their World Cup hopes alive after a setback earlier in the event.
Put into bat after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a formidable 199 for 3 in 20 overs, powered by a superb unbeaten century from Sahibzada Farhan. Farhan smashed a fluent 100 not out off 58 balls, anchoring the innings as Pakistan accelerated impressively in the back half.
Salman Ali Agha provided crucial support with 38 runs, while Shadab Khan chipped in with a brisk 36* to add momentum to the total.
In response, Namibia struggled throughout their chase and were bundled out for 97 in 17.3 overs. Pakistan’s bowling unit, led by Usman Tariq (4 for 16) and Shadab Khan (3 for 19), kept relentless pressure on the Namibian batters, who failed to establish any sustained partnerships.
The emphatic win not only secured six points for Pakistan in Group A but also ensured they finish ahead of the United States and other rivals in the final standings. With India already assured of progression from the group, Pakistan joined them as the second qualifiers from Group A into the Super 8 stage.
This result brought a measure of redemption for Pakistan after their earlier loss to India in the group stage, a game that had put their qualification hopes under pressure.
With the Super 8 lineup now complete, Pakistan look forward to the next chapter of their T20 World Cup campaign, aiming to build momentum and challenge the top sides as the tournament progresses.
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