RAWALPINDI: Usman Tariq became the fourth Pakistan bowler to take a T20I hat-trick as Pakistan beat Zimbabwe by 69 runs in the tri-nation T20I series in Rawalpindi on Sunday. With this win, Pakistan sealed their spot in the final, while Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka will compete for the remaining place.

After Sahibzada Farhan and Babar Azam added 103 for the second wicket off 77 balls to lift Pakistan to a total of 195 for five, Usman struck in the 10th over to dismiss Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, and Wellington Masakadza on successive deliveries — turning the game as Zimbabwe slipped from 60 for four to 60 for seven.

Zimbabwe was eventually bowled out for 126 in 19 overs. Ryan Burl was the standout for Zimbabwe, remaining unbeaten on 67 from 49 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes.

Usman finished with figures of 4-18 and was named Player of the Match. Mohammad Nawaz also impressed, taking two for 21.

Earlier, Sahibzada Farhan scored a 41-ball 63 and Babar Azam scored a 52-ball 74 as Pakistan posted 195 for five after electing to bat first. Sahibzada’s innings included four fours and three sixes, while Babar struck seven fours and two sixes.

For Zimbabwe, Sikandar Raza picked up two wickets for 39 runs.

Scores in brief:

Match 4 – Pakistan beat Zimbabwe by 69 runs

Pakistan 195-5, 20 overs (Babar Azam 74, Sahibzada Farhan 63; Sikandar Raza 2-39)

Zimbabwe 126 all-out, 19 overs (Ryan Burl 67 not out; Usman Tariq 4-18, Mohammad Nawaz 2-21)

Player of the match – Usman Tariq