Farhan went past that mark with a boundary that took him to 40, forming the record in the process. He has been in sparkling form this tournament, being the highest runscorer almost from the outset. He’s scored three half-centuries – against the USA, England, and the ongoing game against Sri Lanka – and one century against Namibia. His runs have come at a strike rate in excess of 158, while Kohli, who scored four half-centuries in 2014, got his runs at 129.14. Farhan is also the second most prolific six-hitter in the competition with 16, behind Shimron Hetmyer’s 17.
Pakistan must win by a huge margin to qualify for the semi-finals. To get there, they need to overcome New Zealand’s superior net run rate, and require approximately a 65-run win against Sri Lanka. The game is a dead rubber for Sri Lanka, who were eliminated after losing to New Zealand earlier this week. Pakistan’s hopes were kept alive after New Zealand went on to lose to England, who have already qualified for the semi-finals, in Colombo last night.
Pakistan had a superb start to their cause, with Farhan and Fakhar Zaman putting on a rapid century stand after Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl. Should Pakistan qualify, they will play their semi-final in Colombo against the table-toppers in the other group, a position currently held by South Africa.
