Pakistan vs Namibia: Predicted Playing XI for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Match 35

Pakistan will take on Namibia in Match No. 35 of the T20 World Cup 2026, a crucial Group A fixture at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan came into the contest after a disheartening loss against India, where their batting line-up was dismantled and they were bowled out for 114. Despite that setback, Pakistan remain in contention for a Super 8 spot and will be aware that a win here is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive. Namibia, on the other hand, are already eliminated after losing all three of their group matches but will be keen to register a consolation victory and potentially disrupt Pakistan’s campaign.

Here are the Pakistan vs Namibia Predicted Playing XI:

Predicted Pakistan Playing XI

Top Order: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub

Pakistan are expected to persist with Sahibzada Farhan at the top, given his consistent returns in the tournament so far. Farhan has been Pakistan’s standout batter and has provided stability in an otherwise inconsistent batting line-up. Saim Ayub’s aggressive intent in the powerplay remains important, especially on a Colombo surface that rewards positive stroke play early on.

Middle Order: Salman Ali Agha (C), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (WK), Shadab Khan

Babar Azam, who has most runs in T20I cricket, will once again be tasked with anchoring the innings after a lean outing against India. Usman Khan showed resistance in the previous match and will play a key role in rebuilding if early wickets fall. Salman Ali Agha adds balance in the middle overs, while Shadab Khan’s dual role as a middle-order batter and leg-spinner remains vital.

All-Rounders: Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf

Mohammad Nawaz provides control with the ball and flexibility with the bat, while Faheem Ashraf adds depth to the lower middle order along with seam-bowling options in the middle and death overs.

Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq

Shaheen Afridi will lead the pace attack despite an expensive outing against India and will look to regain rhythm with the new ball. Abrar Ahmed’s mystery spin could be crucial in the middle overs, while Usman Tariq has been among Pakistan’s most effective bowlers in the tournament, offering control and timely breakthroughs.

Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Babar Azam, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (C), Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Usman Tariq, Mohammad Haris, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Aamer Jamal.

Predicted Namibia Playing XI

Top Order: Louren Steenkamp, Jan Frylinck

Namibia are likely to open with Louren Steenkamp, who has been their most consistent batter in the tournament, alongside Jan Frylinck. The pair will aim to provide a solid start and shield the middle order from early pressure.

Middle Order: Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Gerhard Erasmus (C), JJ Smit

Loftie-Eaton’s ability to score quickly makes him an important middle-order batter, while skipper Gerhard Erasmus will be key in holding the innings together. JJ Smit’s all-round skills add balance and depth to Namibia’s line-up.

Lower Order: Zane Green (WK), Ruben Trumpelmann

Zane Green provides stability and finishing ability, while Trumpelmann’s presence adds depth and left-handed variation in the lower order.

Bowlers: Bernard Scholtz, Willem Myburgh, Max Heingo

Bernard Scholtz will lead Namibia’s spin attack, focusing on control through the middle overs. Willem Myburgh has been Namibia’s most effective seamer in the tournament so far, while Max Heingo offers additional pace options.

Namibia T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Gerhard Erasmus (c), Louren Steenkamp, Jan Frylinck, JJ Smit, Zane Green (wk), Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, Ruben Trumpelmann, Bernard Scholtz, Willem Myburgh, Max Heingo, Dylan Leicher, Malan Kruger, Ben Shikongo, JC Balt, WP Myburgh.

FAQs

Q1: How significant is this match for Pakistan’s Super 8 qualification scenario in the T20 World Cup 2026?

A1: This match holds major importance for Pakistan, as a win would firmly keep them in the race for the Super 8s. A defeat against Namibia could complicate the qualification scenario and potentially open the door for the USA to progress, making this a must-win fixture for Pakistan.

Q2: What role could spin play in the Pakistan vs Namibia clash at Colombo in Match No. 35?

A2: The Colombo surface has offered assistance to spinners as the innings progresses, making the role of bowlers like Abrar Ahmed and Bernard Scholtz crucial. Controlling the middle overs through spin could prove decisive in restricting run flow and building pressure.

Q3: Which Namibia player has the potential to surprise Pakistan in Match No. 35 of the T20 World Cup 2026?

A3: Louren Steenkamp has shown positive intent at the top of the order and remains Namibia’s most reliable batter in the tournament. If he gets going in the powerplay, he could pose early problems for Pakistan’s pace attack.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!