The cricketing world has long been captivated by the statistical tug-of-war between India’s Virat Kohli and Pakistan’s Babar Azam. Fans and pundits alike have spent years dissecting cover drives and strike rates to determine who truly wears the crown of this generation’s premier batter. However, following Pakistan’s recent lackluster showing against India in the T20 World Cup, former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has stepped in to settle the debate with a blunt, reality-checking perspective.

The tension peaked during a high-stakes chase in Colombo. Chasing 176, Pakistan needed their captain to anchor the innings. Instead, Babar fell for a meagre 5 off 7 balls, dismissed by Axar Patel after a shot selection that left many scratching their heads. For Karthik, it wasn’t just about the low score; it was about the mentality behind the dismissal.

Dinesh Karthik delivers strong take on Virat Kohli and Babar Azam comparison

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Karthik didn’t hold back, categorizing Babar’s early departure as a lack of competitive resolve. While Babar is often heralded for his technical elegance, Karthik pointed out a fundamental flaw in his approach during crunch” moments—the very moments where Kohli has built his legend.

“I cannot imagine Virat Kohli playing that shot that early in the innings. That is submission,” Karthik remarked. He argued that greatness isn’t defined by how you play when the sun is shining, but by how you absorb pressure when the walls are closing in. According to Karthik, Babar’s dismissal showed a lack of belief in what it takes to drag a team across the finish line.

While Kohli is famously dubbed the ‘chasemaster’ for his ability to calculate risks and stabilize an innings under duress, Babar’s failure to shoulder that responsibility in Colombo has led to a firestorm of criticism. With Pakistan slumping to a 61-run defeat, the calls for a leadership overhaul in the Pakistan camp have grown deafening, further distancing Babar from the legendary status Kohli already occupies.

Also READ: Varun Aaron explains what’s holding India back in T20 World Cup 2026 campaign

T20 World Cup run of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam in different editions

To understand why Karthik’s critique carries such weight, one only needs to look at the statistical gulf between the two players on the grandest stage of T20 cricket. The numbers tell a story of consistency versus flashes of brilliance.

The data highlights a staggering difference in impact. Kohli’s average of 58.72 over a decade of World Cup cricket is nearly double that of Babar’s. Perhaps more telling is the boundary count; Kohli has cleared the ropes 35 times compared to Babar’s 9, despite Babar playing in an era where power-hitting has become the standard.

Karthik’s point remains clear: Greatness is measured by the ability to thrive in the eye of the storm. Until Babar can replicate Kohli’s knack for match-winning resilience, the debate may well be a conversation with only one name at the top.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: India vs South Africa Super 8 Ticket Prices, Booking Details

The stage is set for an intriguing clash in the Caribbean as West Indies Women host Sri Lanka Women in the 1st ODI of their three-match series at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada.

With both teams eyeing crucial ICC Women’s Championship points, this match serves as a vital barometer for their 50-over form heading into a busy 2026 calendar.

West Indies Women: The return of the stars

The big news for the Maroon Warriors is the return of their captain, Hayley Matthews, who is back after a lengthy shoulder injury. The squad is bolstered by the presence of the legendary Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor, giving them a massive edge in experience. Under Head Coach Shane Deitz, the Windies are seeking “revenge” after losing their previous ODI series to Sri Lanka in 2024.

Key player: Matthews. Her all-round ability to dominate with the bat and provide crucial breakthroughs with her off-spin makes her the undisputed MVP.

Sri Lanka Women: The giant killers

Ranked 6th in ODIs (above West Indies at 9th), Sri Lanka arrives with momentum and a settled core. Led by the powerhouse Chamari Athapaththu, the visitors rely heavily on her explosive starts. Their bowling attack is spin-heavy and disciplined, which could trouble the Windies’ middle order if they fail to rotate strike.

Key player: Kavisha Dilhari. She has evolved into a world-class all-rounder. Her ability to finish games with the bat and her handy off-breaks will be vital in Caribbean conditions.

West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women, 1st ODI: Match Details

• Date and Time: February 20; 07:30 pm IST/ 02:00 pm GMT/ 10:00 am Local
• Venue: National Cricket Stadium, St Georges, Grenada

National Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The surface at St. George’s is traditionally known for being balanced but slightly leaning toward the bowlers as the game progresses. Historically, the pitch offers a good bounce early on, allowing batters to play their shots. While the new ball might zip around under the morning humidity, the track is expected to slow down significantly. Spinners from both sides—like Afy Fletcher and Inoka Ranaweera—will likely dictate the middle overs. Teams winning the toss often prefer to bowl first. The early morning moisture can assist seamers, and chasing has generally been more successful at this venue in limited-overs formats.

Also READ: Star batter returns as BCCI update India Women’s squad for the ODI series against Australia

Squads

West Indies: Hayley Matthews (c), Chinelle Henry (vc), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Realeanna Grimmond, Shawnisha Hector, Qiana Joseph, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Shunelle Sawh, Stafanie Taylor

Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshi De Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Dewmi Vihanga, Rashmika Sewwandi, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari, Nimasha Madushani, Malki Madara, Kawya Kavindi

West Indies Women vs Sri Lanka Women, Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• West Indies Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Sri Lanka Women’s powerplay score: 40-50
• Sri Lanka Women’s total score: 200-220

Case 2:

• Sri Lanka Women wins the toss and bowls first
• West Indies Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• West Indies Women’s total score: 220-250

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: Sri Lanka name strong Women’s ODI squad for West Indies tour

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s father, Sanjeev Suryavanshi, opened up about his son missing his Class 10 exams. Sanjeev clarified that the 14-year-old will skip his Class 10 examination this year to focus on the upcoming IPL season and added that Vaibhav is already training with RR players.

The 14-year-old batter was scheduled to appear for the exams on Tuesday but decided to shift his attention to cricket. He was last seen in action during the U19 World Cup 2026, where he played an important role in India’s title-winning campaign. Vaibhav is now preparing to represent the Royals in IPL 2026.

My Son Is Practising With the Rajasthan Royals – Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Father

Sanjeev Sooryavanshi revealed the reason behind his son skipping the Class 10 exams. He said that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is currently training in Nagpur with Rajasthan Royals players. Sanjeev added that Vaibhav has chosen to appear for the exams next year.

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“My son is practising in Nagpur with the Rajasthan Royals IPL team members. There was a lot of hype around his exams this year, so he has decided to skip them and will appear next year. Had he appeared for the exams, he would not have been able to concentrate,” Sanjeev told Mid-Day.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Was Good in Studies – Sanjeev Sooryavanshi

Sanjeev Sooryavanshi said that his son was a good student before fully committing to cricket. He stated that Vaibhav regularly scored above 90 per cent in all subjects when he attended school consistently, but his focus has now shifted completely to cricket as his main priority.

“Vaibhav was good in studies when he was regular at school. He used to get above 90 per cent in all subjects, but now his priority is cricket,” said Sanjeev (via the aforementioned source).

Vaibhav has produced outstanding numbers across formats over the past year. He has averaged over 44 in List-A cricket and over 41 in T20s. In eight List-A matches, he has scored at a strike rate of 164.95, while he has scored 701 runs in 18 T20 games at a strike rate of 204.37.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Skips Class 10 Exams to Focus on IPL 2026 Preparation

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who lives in Tajpur, Bihar, is a student at Modesty School and was scheduled to sit his Class 10 board exams from February 17 to March 11. However, he has chosen to focus on preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League season.

Vaibhav has already begun training for IPL 2026, which starts on March 26, and is expected to play an important role for the Rajasthan Royals. The franchise signed him at the IPL 2025 auction, and he made an immediate impact in the second half of the season.

The youngster grabbed attention with a stunning 101 off 38 balls, helping Rajasthan Royals chase down 210 against Gujarat Titans in just 15.5 overs. He also impressed at the Under-19 level, scoring 175 off 80 balls to power India to 411/9 in 50 overs during the final against England.

Also read: Michael Vaughan’s ‘No one can beat India’ claim triggers jinx fears around Suryakumar Yadav’s team

Former England stars David Lloyd, Michael Vaughan, Phil Tufnell, and Alastair Cook reacted to India’s dominance in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The former cricketers discussed whether any team can realistically stop Suryakumar Yadav’s side from winning the title in subcontinent conditions.

India defeated the Netherlands by 17 runs in their final Group A match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, February 18. The Men in Blue stayed unbeaten, winning all four group matches. They finished on top of the Group A points table and sealed qualification for the Super 8 stage.

Former England Cricketers Discuss How to Challenge India

Former England cricketers shared their views on how teams might challenge India during the T20 World Cup 2026. Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Michael Vaughan said that Abhishek Sharma is a dangerous batter despite three consecutive ducks in the World Cup.

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“Abhishek Sharma, who’s been a gun, he’s got four noughts out of five in his last. So he’s due,” Vaughan said.

Phil Tufnell stated that beating India is never straightforward. He said that associate teams pushed India close at times, but added that pressure is the only thing capable of stopping India.

“You’ve got to hope. I mean, it is a bit of a lottery at the end of the day, isn’t it? I know these associates have got close, but you’d like to think, as you were saying Sir Alastair, as the pressure ramps up. Pressure is the only thing beating India in India,” Phil Tufnell said.

I don’t think anyone will in this comp … https://t.co/jtxL1jV0Zp

— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 19, 2026

USA Are the Team That’s Got the Closest to Them So Far” – Michael Vaughan

David Lloyd asked whether teams should bat or bowl first against India. Alastair Cook said that the best option is to bat first and put runs on the board, then hope to take early wickets and build pressure. Michael Vaughan added that the USA have come closest to troubling India so far.

“What do you want to do? Do you want to bat first or bowl against India tactically?” David Lloyd asked.

“I think you have to put runs on the board. Old school. And just hope that you can get a couple early, and then the pressure of them needing to go at nine or ten per over. The reason they are so good is that they play so much of it in those conditions that for every scenario they come across, they seem to have a way of finding like the first game, 70 for 7 against the USA,” Alastair Cook stated.

“Well, the USA are the team that’s got the closest to them so far,” Michael Vaughan opined.

India Finish Group Stage Unbeaten With 17-Run Win Over Netherlands

India finished the group stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 unbeaten with a 17-run win over the Netherlands. They opted to bat first and scored 193/6 in 20 overs.

India lost an early wicket, but the middle order steadied the innings. Suryakumar Yadav scored 34 off 28 balls, Tilak Varma made 31 off 27, and Hardik Pandya added 30.

Shivam Dube then took control of the innings. He smashed 66 off just 31 balls, hitting four fours and six sixes at a strike rate of 212.9. For the Netherlands, Logan van Beek picked up three wickets, while Aryan Dutt took two.

In reply, the Netherlands fought hard and finished on 176/7 in 20 overs. Varun Chakaravarthy was the pick of the bowlers for India with figures of 3/14, and Dube also claimed two wickets to win the Player of the Match award.

Also read: “I am still not happy…” – India batting coach on Tilak Varma’s struggles in T20 World Cup 2026

Mohammed Shami was in sensational form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025/26 season. He recently picked up 8 wickets in the semi-final game against Jammu and Kashmir, playing for Bengal. However, he could lead his side to the final of the competition. Shami has been out of the Indian team since 9th March 2025, when India won the ICC Champions Trophy.

Mohammed Shami has also been removed from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) central contract. However, he keeps delivering in the domestic circuit and has been a top performer for Bengal across every tournament they have featured in. He has been the second-highest wicket-taker in the Ranji Trophy for Bengal with 37 wickets in the season.

Mohammed Shami to make a comeback?

The Men’s Selection Committee member RP Singh was present at the Kalyani Ground and witnessed Mohammed Shami’s excellent bowling performance. In the same game, he also smashed a fifty in the first innings.

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There might be a chance that Shami might be called up for the Test team, where he last featured on 7 June 2023 vs Australia. Shami was brilliant in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Supreme Court sends notice to Mohammed Shami

However, problems do not go away for Mohammed Shami, despite on-field problems with his fitness and selection. Off the field, the Supreme Court has issued a notice to India speedster after his wife, Hasin Jahan, filed a petition to transfer of their ongoing domestic violence and alimony case from Kolkata to Delhi.

The notice comes from a bench formed by Justices Manoj Mishra and Ujjal Bhuyan, asking the speedster and the West Bengal government to respond to Jahan’s appeal. The ongoing case, which has been proceeding in Kolkata, can be shifted to the capital state if the court accepts Jahan’s plea.

Jahan stated in her argument that the move to Delhi was required to provide better educational possibilities for their daughter, and that, as a result, she would be unable to attend court proceedings in West Bengal.

Hasin Jahan further stated that Shami, as a professional cricketer, travels widely throughout the country for matches and training purposes. She claimed that Shami has sufficient resources to contest the lawsuit in Delhi without encountering any issues. She also brought out the point that her family lives in Uttar Pradesh, which is closer to Delhi than Kolkata.

Mohammed Shami’s career is over?

Jahan has also requested that the monthly alimony for herself and her daughter be raised from INR 4 lakh to INR 10 lakh. The conflict began in 2018 when Jahan filed a criminal case in West Bengal, alleging cruelty and harassment. She later claimed compensation under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, as well as the requirements for maintenance.

However, there has been no response to the recent notice sent to Shami, as the Supreme Court will now have a look at whether the reasons provided by his wife are enough to transfer the case from Kolkata to Delhi, keeping a tap on the convenience of both parties.

Also Read: Ryan ten Doeschate reveals how opposition teams can destroy India in T20 World Cup 2026

In a tournament often defined by fierce rivalries and high-stakes tension, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 witnessed a moment of pure sporting grace in Ahmedabad. Following India’s hard-fought victory over the Netherlands on Wednesday night, the focus shifted from the scoreboard to a heartwarming exchange that has since gone viral. India’s premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya and pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah transcended the competitive heat of the Narendra Modi Stadium by gifting signed jerseys to the Dutch squad, a gesture that perfectly encapsulated the Spirit of Cricket.

Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah share signed jerseys with Netherlands squad post IND vs NED match

While the 17-run victory secured India’s unbeaten status heading into the Super 8s, the real headlines were made post-match. After the final ball was bowled, the cameras captured an intimate and respectful scene on the outfield. Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah, two of the most recognizable faces in global cricket, were seen engaged in a long, friendly conversation with several members of the Netherlands team.

The highlight of this interaction was the duo handing over their match-worn, autographed jerseys to the Dutch players. For a team like the Netherlands, which consistently punches above its weight on the global stage, receiving such recognition from world-class stars is more than just a souvenir; it is a mark of professional respect. Pandya, who had earlier contributed a vital 30 off 21 balls, and Bumrah, who delivered a characteristically economical spell of 1/17, showed that while they are relentless competitors during the 40 overs, they remain humble ambassadors of the game once the stumps are drawn.

This act of sportsmanship has drawn widespread praise from fans and former cricketers alike, serving as a reminder that the T20 World Cup is as much about growing the global game as it is about winning the trophy.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Varun Aaron explains what’s holding India back in T20 World Cup 2026 campaign

India edges past spirited Netherlands to maintain perfect streak

The match itself was far from a one-sided affair, as the Netherlands pushed the defending champions to their limits. Batting first, India faced an early scare when Abhishek Sharma fell for his third consecutive duck. However, a masterclass in power-hitting from Shivam Dube, who smashed a blistering 66 off 31 balls, and a steadying partnership with Pandya propelled India to a competitive total of 193/6.

The Dutch chase was spearheaded by spirited knocks from Bas de Leede (33) and late fireworks from Noah Croes, who remained unbeaten on 25. Despite their aggressive intent, the experience of India’s bowling attack proved decisive. Varun Chakaravarthy was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/14, while Bumrah’s clinical precision at the death ensured the Netherlands were restricted to 176/7.

With this win, India finish the group stage with a perfect four-out-of-four record. As they move to the Super 8s to face giants like South Africa, they do so not just with momentum, but with the goodwill of the cricketing world following a night in Ahmedabad where humanity outshone the highlights.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: India vs South Africa Super 8 Ticket Prices, Booking Details

The world of Pakistan cricket has been plunged into a state of disbelief following a series of explosive allegations made by Sannia Ashfaq, the former wife of star all-rounder Imad Wasim. In a series of harrowing social media disclosures, Ashfaq has levelled grave accusations against the cricketer, ranging from emotional abandonment to what she describes as a “murderous” act regarding a forced medical procedure. The controversy has quickly transcended the sports pages, sparking a national conversation about accountability, the private lives of public icons, and the protection of women’s rights within high-profile marriages.

Sannia Ashfaq urges to Mohsin Naqvi and Shehbaz Sharif over allegations against Imad Wasim

Breaking her silence months after their December 2025 divorce, Ashfaq released a deeply personal video statement that has since gone viral. The core of her grievance centres on a traumatic event in December 2023. Ashfaq alleges that she was coerced into undergoing a forced abortion, an experience she describes as a source of profound physical and emotional scarring. According to Ashfaq, the procedure was not her choice, and the subsequent lack of support from her then-husband exacerbated an already devastating situation.

“I am recording this video with immense courage because I want the truth for my children and justice for the life that was lost,” Ashfaq stated. She claims to possess documented evidence of these events and has publicly appealed to the highest offices in the country.

Ashfaq specifically called upon the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take notice of her plight. She is demanding a formal investigation into the matter, insisting that her pursuit is for “respect and accountability” rather than personal revenge. Furthermore, she urged the Islamabad United franchise to review the conduct of their player, emphasizing that no woman should have to endure such silenced agony.

Also READ: Pakistan all-rounder hits back at Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Yousuf over remarks on team’s T20 World Cup 2026 performance

“He is a murderer…”: Ashfaq’s allegations and WhatsApp revelations against Imad

The controversy took an even darker turn when Ashfaq shared a third post late Wednesday, explicitly labeling the cricketer a “murderer” in relation to the lost pregnancy. To ground her claims, she released screenshots of purported WhatsApp conversations. These messages allegedly show a stark lack of empathy from Wasim during her pregnancy. Ashfaq claims that while she was carrying his child and seeking emotional support, she was met with legal threats instead of comfort.

The screenshots suggest that when she reached out to Wasim to share the vulnerability of her pregnancy, he allegedly threatened to file a harassment case against her if she continued to contact him. “I simply asked him to see his unborn son… and instead, he threatened me,” she wrote.

Ashfaq’s narrative paints a picture of a systematic “negative campaign” run against her on social media to silence her voice. By coming forward now, she maintains that her primary motivation is the future of her children and ensuring that the “truth” behind the dissolution of her marriage and the loss of her unborn child is acknowledged by the public and the authorities alike.

Also READ: Explained: Which teams will Pakistan face in Super 8 of T20 World Cup 2026?

Australia’s underwhelming campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has not only ended their title hopes but also ignited serious discussions about the future of some of their biggest stars. Among the names under the spotlight is the explosive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, whose international career could be nearing its final chapter.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has openly suggested that Maxwell may not feature in the next T20 World Cup cycle, hinting that the veteran’s time in Australian colours could soon draw to a close.

Australia’s group-stage elimination in the T20 World Cup 2026 came as a shock to many, with the team failing to secure a Super 8 berth. The early exit has intensified scrutiny on the side’s senior players, particularly those who have been part of multiple World Cup campaigns.

Ricky Ponting’s candid assessment on Glenn Maxwell’s future

Speaking during the tournament coverage, Ponting did not shy away from sharing his honest view about Maxwell’s future. Ponting’s comments reflects a growing belief that Australia could be preparing for a transitional phase. Maxwell, known for his fearless strokeplay and match-winning brilliance, has been one of Australia’s most dynamic white-ball cricketers over the past decade. However, recent performances have not quite matched the lofty standards he once set.

“Glenn Maxwell, I don’t think will be there. I think it looks to me like his career is coming towards an end,” Ponting remarked.

A lean patch at the wrong time

Maxwell’s 2026 T20 World Cup campaign has been modest by his standards. The 37-year-old managed just 62 runs across three matches, with starts that failed to convert into impactful scores. While flashes of his trademark innovation were visible, the finishing touch was missing.

The struggles did not begin at this tournament. Maxwell has not registered a T20 half-century since August 2025. In his last 12 T20 appearances, he has averaged just 15.55 with a strike rate of 113.82 — numbers that fall significantly short of his career benchmarks.

His selection for the World Cup squad was already under debate following a disappointing Big Bash League season, where he scored only 76 runs in eight innings. For a player renowned for turning games single-handedly, such numbers inevitably raised eyebrows.

One last appearance in Kandy?

Australia still have one final group-stage match remaining — a February 20 clash against Oman in Kandy. For Maxwell, the fixture could carry emotional weight. If Ponting’s prediction proves accurate, it may mark his final T20 World Cup appearance — or possibly even his last outing in international cricket.

Maxwell’s journey with Australia has been filled with unforgettable highs, including breathtaking centuries and match-defining cameos. His ability to dismantle bowling attacks in a matter of overs made him one of the most feared batters in the shortest format.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Rashid Khan pays heartfelt tribute to outgoing coach Jonathan Trott

In a powerful display of resilience, Pakistan have stormed into the Super 8s of the T20 World Cup 2026 following a clinical 102-run victory over Namibia on February 18, 2026. Beyond the tactical brilliance on the field, a unique psychological shift has taken hold of the squad. Following their must-win triumph in Colombo, star all-rounder Shadab Khan revealed that the team is no longer playing with just eleven men on the field. He credited their newfound momentum to a mysterious ’12th man’, a factor he believes will be the catalyst for a title charge.

‘Our 12th man is with us’: Shadab Khan’s powerful message after Pakistan book Super 8 spot

The mystery of Pakistan’s extra supporter was solved during the post-match press conference, where Shadab linked the team’s surge to the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan. With the squad facing immense criticism following a heavy defeat to India, Shadab insisted that the spiritual strength of the fasting month has provided an unbreakable morale boost. Using his full remarks to explain the team’s mindset, he stated:

“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 was quoted as saying by NDTV Sports.

Shadab further dismissed the noise from former cricketers, noting that the current squad remains focused on their internal ‘process’ rather than external opinions. By framing the holy month as a tangible advantage, the all-rounder has signaled that the 2009 champions are mentally prepared for the grueling schedule ahead, which includes high-octane clashes against England and New Zealand.

Also READ: Explained: Which teams will Pakistan face in Super 8 of T20 World Cup 2026?

T20 World Cup 2026: Sahibzada Farhan’s historic ton seals Pakistan’s Super 8 qualification

On the field, Pakistan’s performance was nothing short of ‘lethal and ruthless,’ as described by captain Salman Ali Agha. The centerpiece of the victory was a record-shattering maiden T20I century by Sahibzada Farhan, who became only the second Pakistan batter in history, after Ahmed Shehzad in 2014, to score a hundred in a T20 World Cup.

Farhan’s unbeaten 100 off 58 balls, featuring 11 boundaries and 4 towering sixes, anchored Pakistan to a massive 199/3. The bowling department then took over, led by mystery spinner Usman Tariq, whose bamboozling ‘pause-and-bowl’ action earned him career-best figures of 4/16. Supported by Shadab Khan’s clinical 3/19, the Pakistan attack bundled Namibia out for just 97 runs in 17.3 overs. This 102-run demolition not only secured their Super 8 berth but also marked Pakistan’s largest-ever margin of victory in T20 World Cup history, officially ending the dreams of the USA, who had hoped for a Namibian upset to stay in the hunt.

Also WATCH: Mike Hesson and Salman Agha caught in a heated exchange during PAK vs NAM T20 World Cup 2026 clash

Afghanistan provided a sentimental and clinical farewell to their departing head coach, Jonathan Trott, by securing a dominant 82-run victory over Canada at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium on February 19 in T20 World Cup 2026.  The victory was built on a record-breaking batting performance that saw Afghanistan post their highest total of the 2026 edition, followed by a masterful spin display under the Chennai lights.

Although both teams had already been eliminated from Super 8 contention, the match served as a poignant tribute to Trott’s transformative four-year tenure. This result ensures Afghanistan finishes third in the ‘Group of Death,’ leaving the competition with their heads held high and a clear blueprint for the ODI World Cup 2027.

Ibrahim Zadran’s record-breaking 95* propels Afghanistan to 200

The first innings in Chennai belonged entirely to Ibrahim Zadran, who produced a masterclass in controlled aggression to finish with an unbeaten 95 off just 64 balls. Zadran’s innings was a historic one, marking the highest individual score by an Afghan batter in T20 World Cup history, surpassing the previous record held by teammate Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

After the early double-strike by Canada’s Jaskaran Singh, who dismissed Gurbaz (30) and Gulbadin Naib in the powerplay, Zadran anchored the innings with veteran composure before exploding in the final five overs. He found an ideal partner in the young Sediqullah Atal, who smashed a quick-fire 44, allowing Zadran to systematically dismantle the Canadian death-bowling plan with 7 boundaries and 5 massive sixes.

The pair added nearly 100 runs for the third wicket, taking Afghanistan from a precarious middle-over lull to a daunting 200/4 by the close of the 20th over. Zadran’s ability to manipulate the field and target the short square boundaries left the Canadian bowlers, particularly Dilon Heyliger, looking for answers as the Afghan total soared past the 190-mark.

Also READ: ‘Our 12th man is with us’: Shadab Khan makes big revelation after Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 qualification

Mohammad Nabi’s four-wicket haul dismantles Canada in emotional farewell

Defending a mammoth 201, the ‘President’ Mohammad Nabi rolled back the years to deliver a spin-bowling clinic, claiming 4/7 to ensure Canada never stood a chance in the chase. Nabi’s variations and immaculate control on the turning Chennai surface triggered a middle-order collapse from which the North American side never recovered, as they were eventually restricted to 118/9.

While Harsh Thaker (30) and Shreyas Movva (28) showed brief resistance, the relentless pressure applied by Nabi and captain Rashid Khan, who remained uncharacteristically economical in the middle overs, forced a flurry of mistimed heaves and desperate shots. The Afghan fielding was equally inspired, with Rashid leading from the front to effect two sharp catches that punctuated the dominance of the bowling unit.

As the required run rate climbed toward the impossible mark of 15 runs per over, the lower order completely crumbled under the lights, with Ziaur Rahman and Azmatullah Omarzai picking up late wickets to seal the 82-run win. The final wicket sparked emotional scenes on the field as the players embraced coach Jonathan Trott, marking the end of a golden period in Afghan cricket that saw them rise from Associate peers to global giant-killers.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Well done, Afghanistan. Finishing off with a win. Your game vs South Africa will be remembered for a long time. Many learnings from this World Cup for you. Go well, guys. 👏 @rashidkhan_19

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) February 19, 2026

Afghanistan ends their #T20WorldCup2026 campaign on a positive note, beating Canada by 82 runs. Not the outing they would have initially planned for, there were not many positives overall. Time to reflect on what went wrong and bring some fundamental changes in the shorter…

— Bashir Gharwal غروال (@bashir_gharwall) February 19, 2026

Today marks the end of a defining chapter for Afghanistan cricket as coach Jonathan Trott leads Afghanistan for the final time.

When Jonathan Trot took on the role of head coach, he brought experience, belief, and calm leadership. Under his guidance, Afghanistan did not just… pic.twitter.com/6lHmZOdaDo

— Wazhma Ayoubi 🇦🇫 (@WazhmaAyoubi) February 19, 2026

Ibrahim Zadran –

129 runs against Australia in World Cup 2023
177 against England in Champions Trophy
95 runs against Canada in T-20 World Cup

He is very good player with aesthetic shots pic.twitter.com/lAbCCV5JgJ

— Sunil The Cricketer (@1sInto2s) February 19, 2026

Lol, Nabi registers best bowling figures in what could be his last T20I for Afghanistan. 4/7 in 4 overs. Could have been a 5-fer had Gurbaz not dropped that catch in his last over.

— JC (@jc_writes_) February 19, 2026

WHAT A KNOCK BY IBRAHIM ZADRAN. 👏

– 95* (56) against Canada in the final game of this T20 World Cup for Afghanistan. 🇦🇫 pic.twitter.com/IefOoyl9ct

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 19, 2026

What a Spell. Career Best T20I Bowling figures for M Nabi 4/7#AFGvCAN #T20WorldCup @MohammadNabi007

— JaayShaan (VaidhyaJayaShankar) (@JaayShaan) February 19, 2026

Mohammad Nabi gonna play one more T20 WC with today’s bowling kerdo 😬😬

— Raghul Krishnamoorthy (@RaghulKrishnam3) February 19, 2026

Outstanding Spell By Mohammad Nabi. 4 Wickets For 7 Runs in 4 Overs. Dangerous Spell. Would’ve Got The Fifer If Rahmanullah Gurbaz Took That Catch

— Aryan Goel (@Aryan42832Goel) February 19, 2026

Afghanistan won by 82 runs 🔥#cricket #AFGvCAN #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/sszdRJZRfE

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 19, 2026

Also READ: Ricky Ponting predicts Glenn Maxwell’s retirement after Australia’s early exit at T20 World Cup 2026