In the crucial match of the World Cup, New Zealand triumphed over Sri Lanka and secured their spot in the semi-finals quite comfortably, seemingly dashing Pakistan’s hopes.
Target Runs for Pakistan to Reach World Cup Semi-Final
The simplest route for Pakistan to advance to the semi-finals hinged on Sri Lanka defeating New Zealand, but the desires of Pakistani fans went unfulfilled.
India, South Africa, and Australia have already earned their places in the knockout stage, while New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan vie for the last spot in the final team.
Yet, following New Zealand’s substantial lead against Sri Lanka, it appears unattainable for Pakistan and Afghanistan to make it to the semi-finals. Meanwhile, the Kiwis’ journey has significantly smoothed.
Also Read: New Zealand’s win against Sri Lanka and secured their spot in the semi-finals
It was imperative for Pakistan and Afghanistan to secure a victory in their final match to advance to the semi-finals. However, now, owing to a diminished run rate, Afghanistan and Pakistan find themselves in a considerable predicament.
New Zealand clinched victory in their concluding group match and ascended to the fourth position on the points chart with a total of 10 points.
New Zealand have all but sealed a semi-final spot, with Pakistan and Afghanistan needing a miracle to overhaul their net run rate 🇳🇿 #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/5rIqvmE7Wt
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) November 9, 2023
Afghanistan and Pakistan are at the seventh and eighth positions with 5 and 5 points respectively.
Afghanistan will face New Zealand tomorrow and Pakistan will face Australia on Saturday.
Despite the victory of the Afghan team and Pakistan in the last match, it seems improbable to reach the knockout stage due to the low run rate.
How can Pakistan reach the semi-finals?
If the Pakistan cricket squad aims to advance to the semi-finals, they must defeat England by a margin of no less than 287 runs.
As per Chicano, if Pakistan’s side manages to score 300 runs while batting first against England, then England will need to be bowled out for just 13.
In case England takes the first turn to bat, they will be limited to 50 runs, and Pakistan will need to chase down the target in 2.5 overs, a task that appears to be extremely challenging.
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Alternatively, Afghanistan must secure a victory against South Africa with a margin of 438 runs to advance to the semi-finals, a task that appears insurmountable.