Clinical dominance on the field was balanced with visible friction in the dugout in a high-risk encounter, Pakistan Secured their place in the Super Eight stage of t20 world cup 2026. In the 35th match of Group A held at Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, Colombo on February 18, 2026, Pakistan team defeated Namibia by a huge margin of 102 runs.
Despite comprehensive victory, the night’s headlines were not justified Sahebzada FarhanBrilliant first T20I century, but heated exchange between Pakistan head coaches, mike hessonand captain salman ali aga Which has since gone viral.
Heated argument between Mike Hesson and Salman Aga during PAK vs NAM clash
Tension reached its peak within the Pakistani camp during the first innings. After a strong partnership of 67 runs with Farhan, Agha was out after scoring 38 runs on 23 balls. As the captain returned to the dugout, television cameras captured an incredibly animated discussion between him and head coach Hesson.
Hesson appeared to be criticizing Agha’s shot selection or the team’s tactical approach during the middle overs. The exchange quickly turned sour; Aga, who appeared unhappy with the feedback, was seen gesturing aggressively before throwing a water bottle on the ground in frustration. Hesson was momentarily stunned by this outburst, however the veteran coach continued speaking while Agha nodded dismissively.
Interestingly, the former captain Babar Azam Caught directly in the crossfire. Babar, seated between the warring coach and captain, remained a mute spectator, looking awkward and refusing to intervene as the drama unfolded. This internal discord has come to light just a few days ago after Pakistan’s crushing 61-run defeat to India, which shows that the pressure of the tournament is taking a toll on the leadership.
Here is the video:
When Pakistan captain Salman Ali Aga was told that Babar Azam was the next player to bat pic.twitter.com/IU3DrPtoJp
– Brutal Truth (@sarkarstix) 18 February 2026
Pakistan is ready to face tough Super Eight challenge
Despite internal strife, the 102-run win against Namibia accomplished its primary objective: qualification. Pakistan finished the group stage as the last team to book their place in the Super Eights, and joined the elite ranks following a “must win” scenario. However, the road ahead is anything but easy.
Pakistan has been placed in Group 2 of the Super Eight stage New Zealand, England, And Sri Lanka. All matches in Group 2 will remain in Sri Lanka, using venues in Colombo and Kandy, giving the teams the benefit of familiar conditions. However, the level of competition will increase rapidly.
The Men in Green begin their Super Eight campaign against New Zealand in Colombo. While the win over Namibia provided a mathematical lifeline, the upcoming fixtures will test whether this team can hold together in the intense heat of the World Cup.
Also read: Explained: Which teams will Pakistan face in the Super 8 of T20 World Cup 2026?