Opener Sahibzada Farhan scripted a memorable personal milestone in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, but his unbeaten hundred against the Namibia national cricket team triggered an unexpected debate.
Farhan reached his maiden T20I century in the final over, finishing on 100 off 58 deliveries, an innings laced with boundaries and calculated strokeplay. However, it was his approach in the closing moments that drew scrutiny.
Pathan questions intent
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan openly questioned Farhan’s decision-making on air, pointing to a single taken to reach the milestone and the decision to leave the final delivery.
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Pathan suggested that in a format defined by urgency, "He definitely has scored a century, but taking a single? Unbelievable. Unbelievable. You would be happy that you have scored a century and that Pakistan have reached 199," Irfan said on air as quoted by Hindustan Times.
When Shadab hit two sixes, Irfan said, "This is what you have to do. You have to attack the off-spinner. It wasn’t there on the first three balls from Farhan or Shadab."
Milestone in elite company
Despite the criticism, the knock placed Farhan in rare territory. He became only the second Pakistani batter after Ahmed Shehzad to score a century in a men’s T20 World Cup.
His innings powered the Pakistan national cricket team to a formidable 199/3, laying the platform for a dominant outing.
Result beyond the noise
The outcome ultimately softened any tactical debate. Pakistan’s bowlers dismantled Namibia for 97, sealing a comprehensive victory and strengthening their position in the tournament standings.
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While the scoreboard reflects authority, Farhan’s century has sparked a broader discussion on modern T20 batting philosophy — where the balance between individual milestones and collective maximisation remains under constant examination.
