Sahibzada Farhan fires Pakistan into Super 8s in pakistan vs namibia rout
On Wednesday, March 4, 2026 (ET), Pakistan booked a Super 8s berth at the T20 World Cup after a dominant performance over Namibia that combined a blistering maiden T20 international century with a devastating spin display. The 102-run victory further underlined Pakistan's intent as the tournament heads into its next phase.
Farhan's maiden T20 century sets the tone
Opening batter Sahibzada Farhan produced the innings Pakistan needed, hitting an unbeaten 100 from 58 balls. His knock featured four sixes and 11 boundaries and anchored a 199-3 total that left Namibia with a daunting chase. Captain Salman Ali Agha provided useful support with 38, while Shadab Khan's unbeaten 36 accelerated the finish and ensured Pakistan posted a near-200 score on a receptive track.
Usman Tariq and Shadab Khan bowl Namibia out cheaply
Chasing 200, Namibia were undone by a clever mix of mystery spin and wrist work. Usman Tariq's distinctive pause-and-bowl action proved a handful; he finished with 4-16, choking the middle overs and triggering a collapse. Shadab Khan complemented him perfectly, claiming 3-19 as Namibia were dismissed for 97 in 17. 3 overs. The result was Namibia's fourth straight loss in the group and confirmed Pakistan's progression to the Super 8s, where they will join two other qualifiers in England's group.
Group context and late-night results
The Pakistan win was part of a busy group stage evening. Earlier, South Africa closed out their group campaign in style, chasing down a modest 123 against the United Arab Emirates with 40 balls to spare. The UAE had posted 122-6, with veteran quick Corbin Bosch spearheading the attack with 3-12. Anrich Nortje chipped in with 2-28.
South Africa's chase was comfortable after a cautious start interrupted by rain. The Proteas reached 123-4 in 13. 2 overs, with key contributions from Dewald Brevis and Ryan Rickelton. Aiden Markram offered early impetus before falling for 28, and the visitors coasted home, finishing the group stage unbeaten. That momentum included a tense double Super Over victory in an earlier match that showcased their nerve under pressure.
With Pakistan through and South Africa unbeaten, the tournament now moves into a phase where day-to-day momentum and matchups will be decisive. Pakistan's blend of explosive batting at the top and variety in spin bowling has given them a clear platform heading into the Super 8s, while other teams will need to tighten plans and execution to keep pace.
Key takeaways from the session: Pakistan's top order now carries a big-hitting threat led by Farhan; Namibia must reassess their chase strategies after repeated collapses; and South Africa's consistency makes them a leading contender as the competition intensifies. The T20 World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2026 (ET), and the coming Super 8s matches will provide a clearer picture of who can sustain form through to the business end.
