T20 World Cup: Pakistan’s do-or-die battle vs Namibia

Win against Namibia essential for Super 12 progression loss means early elimination

T20 World Cup Pakistan’s do-or-die battle vs Namibia
T20 World Cup Pakistan’s do-or-die battle vs Namibia

Colombo: Pakistan’s national cricket team will face Namibia today in a crucial Group A match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The match, scheduled to start at 2:30 PM local time, has become a do-or-die encounter, as Pakistan’s progression to the Super 12 stage depends entirely on the result.

After suffering a heavy 61-run defeat to India, Pakistan must secure a win against Namibia to advance. Reports from Colombo also indicate a 50–60% chance of rain, which could impact the match and the points situation.

Currently, Pakistan sits third in Group A with two wins and one loss from three matches and a net run rate of -0.403, lower than that of the USA. India has already qualified for the top spot in the group, while the USA remains second, ahead of Pakistan due to a better net run rate.

If rain forces the match to be abandoned, Pakistan would still progress to the Super 12 with 5 points. However, a loss to Namibia would allow the USA, with 4 points and a superior net run rate, to advance, resulting in Pakistan’s elimination at the first-round stage.

With high stakes and uncertain weather, this match represents a critical moment for Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign, where only a win or a rain-affected point will keep their hopes alive.