Pakistan Cruise into Final as Tariq’s Hat-Trick & Babar’s 74 Overwhelm Zimbabwe

Pakistan crushed Zimbabwe to reach the final, showcasing dominant pace bowling, sharp tactics, and powerful batting. Tariq’s superb hat-trick dismantled Zimbabwe early, while Babar Azam’s classy 74 sealed the chase. Zimbabwe’s brief resistance faded quickly as Pakistan, peaking at the right time, delivered a complete all-round performance ahead of the final.

1. Match Context: High Stakes and High Pressure

The semifinal carried significant weight for both sides. Pakistan entered the match as favorites, but their performances earlier in the tournament had fluctuated. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, had built momentum with spirited wins and were seen as dangerous underdogs.

Zimbabwe elected to bat first, hoping to post a challenging total on the board. What followed, however, was a collapse engineered by pure skill and precision from Pakistan’s pace attack.

2. Tariq’s Hat-Trick: The Turning Point

2.1 The Build-Up

Tariq, who has been steadily rising in Pakistan’s fast-bowling ranks, started with disciplined lines and probing lengths. Zimbabwe seemed cautious, respecting his pace and bounce.

2.2 The Hat-Trick — Ball by Ball Breakdown

Ball 1:
A full-length delivery angled into the pads. The batter attempted a flick, only to get a leading edge straight to mid-wicket. Zimbabwe lost their set batter.
Ball 2:
Tariq went wider on the crease, delivering a perfect outswinger. The ball kissed the outside edge and flew to slip, where a sharp catch was taken.
Ball 3:
A brute of a delivery — back of length, rising sharply. The new batter fended awkwardly, gloving it behind. The crowd erupted. Tariq completed a sensational hat-trick.

3. Zimbabwe’s Struggles: A Tale of Lost Momentum

After Tariq’s hat-trick, Zimbabwe tried to rebuild but kept losing wickets at regular intervals.

3.1 Middle-Order Collapse

The middle order failed to apply themselves against Pakistan’s relentless pace and spin combination. Haris Rauf tightened the screws with disciplined short balls, while Shadab Khan used variations to choke scoring.

3.3 Final Total

Zimbabwe were eventually bundled out for a modest total — one far below par considering the conditions and stakes. Their inability to recover from Tariq’s spell defined the innings.

4. Pakistan’s Batting Response: Babar Leads with Class

Chasing a modest target, Pakistan looked calm and confident. But what stood out was the composure and fluency of Babar Azam, who delivered yet another batting masterclass.

4.1 Intent from Ball One

Babar opened with controlled aggression. He drove elegantly through cover, played late cuts with finesse, and rotated strike efficiently. His approach made it clear that Pakistan didn’t want to drag the chase longer than needed.

4.2 Shot Selection and Control

His cover drives were crisp
His pull shots were authoritative
His footwork against spin was impeccable
His strike rotation prevented any pressure buildup

Babar’s innings reflected maturity. Though aggressive, it remained risk-free — a quality that separates great batters from the rest.

5. Tactical Brilliance: Pakistan Outplayed Zimbabwe in Every Phase

5.1 Bowling Plans Executed Perfectly

Pakistan’s bowlers didn’t just rely on pace. They executed:

Hard lengths
Seam movement
Change of pace
Tight spin sequences

Tariq’s early strike broke Zimbabwe’s back, while the others ensured no comeback was possible.

5.2 Batting Strategy: Aggressive but Calculated

Pakistan chased with intent, not allowing Zimbabwe’s bowlers to settle.

Key components:

Early boundary pressure
Strong running between wickets
Positive mindset

It was a perfect example of how to chase in knockout matches.

6. Zimbabwe’s Missed Opportunities

Despite the heavy defeat, Zimbabwe had moments where they could have shifted the game in their favor.

6.1 Dropped Catch Off Babar

A crucial early chance was spilled, giving Babar a life he capitalized on fully.

6.2 Poor Barrage After Hat-Trick

Instead of consolidating after losing three wickets, Zimbabwe attempted aggressive shots, worsening the collapse.

7. Player of the Match: Tariq vs Babar — A Close Race

Though Babar’s innings was majestic, Tariq’s hat-trick turned the game. Ultimately, both players made compelling cases:

Why Tariq?

Game-changing spell
Hat-trick in crucial phase
Destroyed Zimbabwe’s confidence

Why Babar?

Calm captain-like innings
Match-winning partnership building
Flawless technique under pressure

Both performances were award-worthy, but Tariq’s spell set the tone for the entire match.

8. What This Win Means for Pakistan Ahead of the Final

Pakistan’s comprehensive win sends a clear signal to the rest of the tournament:

A. Fast Bowling Unit Peaking at the Right Time

Tariq, Haris, and Shaheen form a deadly trio that can dismantle any batting lineup.

B. Batting Stability Through Babar

Babar’s form means Pakistan have a dependable anchor.

9. What Zimbabwe Must Learn from This Defeat

Zimbabwe’s journey to the semifinal was impressive, but this defeat highlights areas needing improvement:

Better handling of fast bowling
More patience under pressure

With young talent emerging, Zimbabwe has potential — but consistency will be key.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s victory over Zimbabwe was a statement performance — ruthless, efficient, and clinical. Tariq’s hat-trick will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the tournament, while Babar Azam once again showcased the elegance and reliability that places him among the sport’s finest.