Pakistan Survive Dutch Scare in World Cup Opener!
What a way to kick off the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026! In a heart-stopping tournament opener at Colombo, Pakistan narrowly escaped a historic upset, defeating the Netherlands by 3 wickets with just 3 balls to spare.
The Script: From Comfort to Chaos
After a clinical bowling display led by Salman Mirza (3/24) and Saim Ayub (2/7) bundled the Netherlands out for 147, the chase seemed like a formality. Pakistan started strong with Sahibzada Farhan (47 off 30), but a sensational middle-order collapse saw them slip from 98/2 to a terrifying 114/7.
With the Dutch sensing blood and Pakistan needing 33 runs from the final 18 balls, the "Men in Green" were staring down the barrel of a disastrous start.
The Hero: Faheem Ashraf’s Late Blitz
Just as the pressure reached a boiling point, Faheem Ashraf turned into a human highlight reel. In a game-changing 19th over, he smashed Logan van Beek for 24 runs, including three towering sixes, to effectively seal the game. He finished unbeaten on 29 off just 11 balls*, surviving a dropped catch to steer Pakistan across the finish line.
Key Highlights:
- Netherlands: 147 All Out (19.5 overs) – Scott Edwards (37), Salman Mirza (3/24).
- Pakistan: 148/7 (19.3 overs) – Sahibzada Farhan (47), Faheem Ashraf (29*).
- The Moment: Faheem Ashraf’s three sixes in the 19th over to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.