Sahibzada Farhan’s Century Not Enough as Pakistan Exits T20 World Cup

Summary – Despite Sahibzada Farhan’s remarkable century against Sri Lanka, Pakistan is eliminated from the T20 World Cup, with New Zealand advancing to the semi-finals.,

Article –

Pakistan’s journey in the ICC T20 World Cup ended unexpectedly on February 28, 2026, despite a remarkable century by Sahibzada Farhan against Sri Lanka at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Although Farhan’s unbeaten 100 runs kept Pakistan competitive, the team was eliminated from the tournament while New Zealand advanced to the semi-finals.

What Happened?

Pakistan needed a win in their crucial group-stage match versus Sri Lanka to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Sahibzada Farhan delivered a stellar performance, scoring 100 runs off 68 balls including 10 fours and 4 sixes, helping Pakistan post a total of 175 runs for 6 wickets in their 20 overs. Sri Lanka matched this total, finishing at 175 for 8 wickets, resulting in a tie. However, due to the group stage points system and net run rate, Pakistan were eliminated while New Zealand moved on after securing a victory in their final group game.

Key Numbers

• Sahibzada Farhan: 100 runs from 68 balls (10 fours, 4 sixes)
• Pakistan total: 175/6 in 20 overs
• Sri Lanka total: 175/8 in 20 overs
• Match result: Tie
• New Zealand’s final group match victory margin: 7 wickets

Locker-Room Reactions

Pakistan captain Babar Azam expressed both disappointment and pride in the team’s efforts, stating, “Sahibzada played an exceptional inning today. We fought hard but unfortunately, the tournament has come to an end for us. We’ll take the lessons forward and come back stronger.” Farhan emphasized the team spirit above individual success: “Scoring a century in such a crucial game is special, but the team result matters most. It’s heartbreaking to exit the tournament, but we gave our best.”

Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka praised the competitive nature of the match, while New Zealand captain Kane Williamson highlighted consistency as the key to progressing in the tournament.

Immediate Consequences

Pakistan’s exit raises questions about team strategy and player selection moving forward, with an emphasis on nurturing younger talent for future ICC events. New Zealand’s win prepares them for a semi-final challenge against the tournament’s top-ranked team. Sri Lanka, though competitive, finished outside of the semi-final qualification.

What Comes Next?

1. The semi-finals are scheduled for March 3 and 4, 2026, with New Zealand poised to face a strong opponent in their match.
2. Pakistan will focus on rebuilding through upcoming bilateral series and domestic competitions.
3. ICC confirmed the group-stage results stand without dispute, ensuring transparency in progression.

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Bhavya

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