After suffering their third consecutive loss, this time to South Africa in the World Cup, the upcoming match between New Zealand and Pakistan on Saturday has gained added significance. New Zealand, who were leading the points table just ten days ago, now find themselves at a crucial juncture. In their next fixture, they will face Pakistan, a team that has rekindled its hopes of securing a spot in the semifinals by defeating Bangladesh.
Babar Azam’s Pakistani team must secure victories in their last two league matches, including a clash with defending champions England in their final game. Even if New Zealand manages to defeat Sri Lanka in their last match, the situation should still favor the Kiwis, as long as they avoid a heavy defeat against Pakistan. However, there are other teams that have not given up hope of reaching the semifinals.
Currently, one thing is certain: Bangladesh is eliminated from the semifinal race. All other teams are still mathematically in contention. India and South Africa are in a strong position to make it to the semifinals, although official confirmation is pending. Australia, with a four-match winning streak, is the favorite to secure a semifinal berth, with upcoming matches against England, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.
Afghanistan, who have defeated Pakistan and Sri Lanka, are set to face the Netherlands, a team that still holds onto hopes of reaching the semifinals. Afghanistan’s remaining matches against Australia and South Africa pose significant challenges on paper. The Dutch team will face England and India in their last two matches and may find opportunities to advance, especially considering the struggles of the defending champions.
A defeat to Australia on Saturday will officially eliminate England from contention, and even a win may not prolong their hopes for long. Sri Lanka, to stay in the reckoning, effectively needs to win all three of their remaining games, starting with their match against India in Mumbai on Thursday.
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