In a remarkable display of skill, Usman Tariq achieved a historic milestone for Pakistan cricket by becoming the fourth bowler from the nation to secure a hat-trick in Men’s T20 Internationals. This achievement came during the Pakistan tri-series match against Zimbabwe, held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on November 23, 2025.
Usman Tariq’s Hat-Trick Against Zimbabwe
During the crucial match, Pakistan was defending a formidable total of 196 runs. Usman Tariq’s exceptional bowling led him to dismantle Zimbabwe’s batting lineup, leaving the opposition stunned. He registered his hat-trick by taking out successive wickets of Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, and Wellington Masakadza.
Historic Achievement
Tariq’s performance marked him as a part of an elite group in Pakistan’s cricket history. The other bowlers who have achieved this feat include:
- Faheem Ashraf – vs Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi (2017/18)
- Mohammad Hasnain – vs Sri Lanka, Lahore (2019/20)
- Mohammad Nawaz – vs Afghanistan, Sharjah (2025)
Bowling Performance Breakdown
Usman Tariq’s bowling was characterized by strategic control and clever variations. His hat-trick deliveries were not merely about speed; they showcased his ability to outsmart batters:
- First Wicket: Tony Munyonga attempted a slog sweep but mis-timed, resulting in a catch to Naseem Shah.
- Second Wicket: Tashinga Musekiwa was bowled after falling for Tariq’s deceptive delivery.
- Third Wicket: Wellington Masakadza mis-hit a slower ball, leading to a catch at long-on.
The crowd erupted in celebration as Usman Tariq achieved this memorable milestone, marking a significant moment in his cricketing career and Pakistan’s T20I history.
