Babar Brilliance 74, Tariq Magic Hat-Trick Take Pakistan Into Final: A Comprehensive Match Analysis
Pakistan stormed into the final of the T20I tri-series with a statement victory, crushing Zimbabwe by 69 runs in a match that showcased their batting depth, bowling discipline, and rising young talent. With Babar Azam’s authoritative 74 and Usman Tariq’s electrifying hat-trick stealing the spotlight, Pakistan not only claimed another win but also dented Zimbabwe’s net run rate severely—opening the door for Sri Lanka’s hopes of entering the final.
This win marked Pakistan’s third consecutive triumph in the series, cementing their place in the championship match while simultaneously showcasing their growing dominance in the shorter format.
Pakistan’s Explosive Start After Winning the Toss
Choosing to bat first on a lively Rawalpindi pitch, Pakistan aimed to maximise early overs. Saim Ayub took that responsibility with flair, launching two towering sixes inside the powerplay. Although his stay was short-lived, the tempo he set laid the groundwork for what would become a commanding total.
Ayub’s quick-fire cameo ensured Zimbabwe were pushed on the back foot right from the start. His fearless approach—taking on seamers and spinners alike—created the momentum Babar and Farhan later capitalised on.
Farhan and Babar’s Game-Defining Partnership
Once Ayub departed, Sahibzada Farhan and Babar Azam took charge with a partnership built on contrasting yet complementary styles. Farhan adopted an aggressive mindset, swinging freely and putting pressure on the bowlers. His first 20 balls produced 32 runs, showcasing his urgency and willingness to dominate.
Babar, in contrast, was composed. His intention was clear: settle in, assess the pitch, and launch at the right time. He accumulated just 15 off his first 20 balls, proving once again his mastery of pacing an innings.
Together, the duo rotated strike intelligently while capitalising on loose deliveries. Their understanding of field placements and game tempo helped Pakistan build a stable foundation.
Acceleration After Settling In
The turning point of Pakistan’s innings came post the 10-over mark. With wickets in hand and Zimbabwe’s bowlers under pressure, both batters shifted gears. Babar targeted Sikandar Raza in the 12th over, hitting consecutive boundaries that signalled his acceleration phase.
Farhan, meanwhile, reached his half-century in style and continued punishing anything even slightly overpitched. His monumental six to bring up the 100-run stand emphasised his confidence and control.
By the time Farhan fell for a blistering 63 off 41 deliveries, he had already provided Pakistan with the perfect launchpad.
Raza Strikes Back, but Pakistan Stay in Control
Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe’s most experienced bowler, brought some respite for his side with timely wickets. His dismissal of Farhan slowed Pakistan briefly, and later removing Babar momentarily eased the pressure on Zimbabwe.
However, Pakistan’s aggressive intent meant that every time Zimbabwe attempted to claw back, a counterpunch was ready.
Back-End Hitting Takes Pakistan to 195
With just five overs left and plenty of wickets in hand, Pakistan opted for a flexible batting order. Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Nawaz were promoted to exploit the death overs, though neither found their rhythm. Still, Babar continued attacking, smashing Brad Evans and Raza to maintain momentum.
Pakistan’s run rate soared as they remained committed to aggressive play—setting the stage for a blistering finish.
Fakhar Zaman’s Incredible Last Over
Fakhar Zaman, surprisingly slotted in at No. 7, delivered one of the most impactful cameos of the series. In a dramatic final over against Evans, he hammered three sixes and a four, collecting 25 runs.
The drama peaked when Evans thought he had dismissed Fakhar on the final delivery—only for it to be declared a no-ball. Fakhar then launched the free hit for another six, turning the over into an outright demolition.
This explosive finish lifted Pakistan to 195, their highest total of the tournament.
Zimbabwe’s Struggle in the Chase
Chasing 196, Zimbabwe needed a strong, stable start—but instead, they collapsed. Their top-heavy batting unit, already under pressure, faltered early as Marumani gifted his wicket with a mistimed shot.
Brian Bennett and the experienced Brendan Taylor followed soon after, leaving Zimbabwe tottering with little hope.
Burl’s Lone Fight
Ryan Burl was the only Zimbabwean batter who looked comfortable at the crease. His aggressive yet controlled 67* was a highlight in an otherwise dismal chase. He struck boundaries with ease and launched a few massive hits, including a six off Naseem Shah to reach his half-century.
However, his partners fell in quick succession, leaving him stranded and powerless to influence the match’s outcome.
Usman Tariq’s Magical Hat-Trick
The moment of the match came from young off-spinner Usman Tariq. He dismissed Tony Munyonga through a top-edged sweep, then bowled Tashinga Musekiwa next ball with a perfectly disguised delivery.
With fielders closing in and pressure mounting, Wellington Masakadza attempted a reckless lofted shot on the hat-trick ball—only to find long-on perfectly positioned.
The result: Tariq’s stunning hat-trick, sealing Zimbabwe’s collapse.
Masakadza’s Misjudgment
Masakadza’s decision to attack instead of defending was reminiscent of Shannon Gabriel’s infamous moment. Instead of denying Tariq the hat-trick, he gifted it—symbolising Zimbabwe’s poor decision-making under pressure.
Pakistan’s All-Round Bowling Performance
Beyond Tariq, Pakistan’s bowling unit delivered collectively. Nawaz’s 2-21 and Naseem’s early breakthroughs ensured Zimbabwe never had breathing room. Their discipline, variation, and execution highlighted Pakistan’s strong bowling depth.
Impact on Points Table and Net Run Rate
Pakistan’s huge win confirmed their spot in the final, maintaining a perfect record. Zimbabwe’s net run-rate took a significant hit, pushing them to the brink and giving Sri Lanka a clearer path to qualification.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s victory over Zimbabwe was a near-perfect performance—highlighted by Babar’s class, Farhan’s aggression, Tariq’s brilliance, and Fakhar’s explosive finishing. With three consecutive wins and increasing momentum, Pakistan enter the final as strong favourites. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, face an uphill battle after a heavy defeat that exposed their weaknesses in both batting and decision-making.
