Pakistan has made it to the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a solid 102-run victory over Namibia on February 18, 2026. Following the match, star all-rounder Shadab Khan noted a positive shift in the team’s mindset, suggesting that they are now energized by a ’12th man’ that boosts their spirit as they aim for the title.
‘Our 12th man is with us’: Shadab Khan’s statement after Pakistan secures Super 8 spot
Shadab explained that this ‘extra supporter’ is linked to the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. He believes this period has uplifted the team’s morale after facing criticism following a defeat to India. He emphasized the importance of focusing on what they can control and highlighted Ramadan’s influence, stating:
“At the end of the day, you can only control certain things, so you should focus on controlling those. And now Ramadan has started, humara 12th man toh saath hi hai (our 12th man is with us). The Super 8 will be difficult. These will be high-pressure matches. Ramadan has begun, and it will be like our 12th player.” Shadab mentioned, as reported by NDTV Sports.
Shadab also dismissed criticism from former players, stating that the squad is concentrating on their own strategy rather than outside opinions. His remarks suggest that the 2009 champions are ready for the upcoming intense matches against strong opponents like England and New Zealand.
T20 World Cup 2026: Sahibzada Farhan’s remarkable century leads Pakistan to Super 8
Pakistan’s on-field execution was described as ‘lethal’ by captain Salman Ali Agha. Central to their success was Sahibzada Farhan, who scored a milestone first T20I century, making him the second Pakistani player ever to achieve this in a T20 World Cup, after Ahmed Shehzad in 2014.
Farhan’s unbeaten 100 off 58 balls, with 11 fours and 4 sixes, helped Pakistan post a strong total of 199/3. The bowlers then delivered, with Usman Tariq achieving career-best figures of 4/16 thanks to his unique ‘pause-and-bowl’ style. Supported by Shadab Khan’s impressive 3/19, they dismissed Namibia for just 97 runs in 17.3 overs. This 102-run win not only secured their entry into the Super 8 but also marked Pakistan’s largest victory margin in T20 World Cup history, effectively ending the hopes of the USA, who were counting on a Namibian win.
