In a thrilling T20 International encounter, Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq achieved a career-defining hat-trick against Zimbabwe at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. This outstanding performance places him in an exclusive club of Pakistani bowlers who have taken three wickets in consecutive deliveries in the T20I format. Tariq’s spell was instrumental in Pakistan’s comprehensive victory, solidifying their position as finalists in the ongoing tri-series.
The pivotal moment arrived in the ninth over of Zimbabwe’s chase. Tariq meticulously dismantled their middle order, first trapping Tony Munyonga leg before wicket, then inducing a caught-behind dismissal of Tashinga Musekiwa on the very next ball for a duck. He sealed his hat-trick by bowling Wellington Masakadza, a feat celebrated widely by his teammates. This achievement sees Tariq join Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Hasnain, and Mohammad Nawaz in this prestigious list.
Pakistan’s dominance was evident throughout the match. After posting a strong total of 195, thanks to half-centuries from their captain Babar Azam and opener Sahibzada Farhan, their bowlers delivered a clinical performance. The victory ensures Pakistan remains unbeaten in the tri-series, heading into the final with considerable momentum. This win also marks their 20th T20I victory against Zimbabwe, extending their record as the team with the most wins against the African nation in this format.