pakistan national cricket team vs namibia national cricket team standings: Farhan ton sends Pakistan into Super 8s
Pakistan secured the final Super 8s berth with a convincing 102-run victory over Namibia in Colombo on Wednesday (ET). An unbeaten century from Sahibzada Farhan and incisive spin bowling from Usman Tariq dismantled Namibia’s chase after Pakistan posted a commanding 199 for 3.
Farhan’s maiden T20 international century anchors big total
Winning the toss and electing to bat proved decisive. Opener Sahibzada Farhan produced the standout performance with an unbeaten 100 off 58 balls, stroking 11 fours and four sixes as he paced Pakistan to 199 for 3. The innings included a steady start and a decisive acceleration once a foundation partnership was in place; Farhan said his sustained domestic run of matches had prepared him for this moment and that he aimed to play ‘normal cricket’ before taking charge, a plan that paid off handsomely.
Captain Salman Ali Agha provided useful support with a 38-ball contribution, and Shadab Khan finished the innings with a quickfire 36 not out. Those late overs ensured Pakistan pushed beyond the 190 mark, presenting Namibia with a daunting chase on a Colombo surface that offered some assistance to spinners.
Spin dominance: Tariq and Shadab rip through Namibia
Namibia’s reply never got going. Usman Tariq, operating with a distinct pause-and-release action, was the destroyer in chief, finishing with figures of 4 for 16. His variations and subtle changes of pace repeatedly beat batters and sparked a collapse that left Namibia stumbling to 97 all out in 17. 3 overs.
Shadab Khan complemented Tariq’s effort by taking 3 for 19, with the duo sharing the bulk of the wickets as seam options struggled to contain the scoring. Namibia’s innings was punctuated by brief resistance but lacked a sustained partnership, and the steady pressure from Pakistan’s spin department prevented any recovery.
The margin of victory — 102 runs — underlined the gulf between the teams on the day. Namibia’s fourth straight loss in the tournament leaves them with work to do in their development and planning, while Pakistan can take confidence from both their batting depth and their bowling variety.
Super 8s picture and what comes next
With this result, Pakistan clinched the final spot in the Super 8s. The win secures progression and sets up a tougher set of fixtures in the next phase of the competition. Pakistan’s balance — a top-order capable of rapid scoring combined with match-winning spin options — will be tested against stronger opposition, but the performance in Colombo offers a timely boost.
Individual form is another takeaway. Farhan’s maiden international T20 century will raise expectations about his place in the side, while Tariq’s mystery spin provides a new weapon that captains will need to plan for. Shadab’s late batting cameo and tidy bowling reinforce his value as a multi-dimensional performer.
As teams regroup for the Super 8s, Pakistan will reflect on the comprehensive nature of this victory and aim to carry momentum forward. Namibia, meanwhile, must reassess their strategies and seek innings-building solutions if they are to compete more effectively at this level.
Match details: Pakistan 199/3 (Farhan 100*); Namibia 97 all out. Result: Pakistan won by 102 runs and advanced to the Super 8s.