How can England still qualify for ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final? Check the complete scenario

ODI World Cup 2023 defending champions England is having one of the worst tournaments in their history. After playing six games, they have won only one (against Bangladesh). The Three Lions have lost to New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and India. Their latest loss was against the Men In Blue, India. This tournament also carries the stakes of the Champions Trophy 2025 qualification, the defending champions can still qualify for the semis.

Scenario for England to qualify

The Blue Brigade has three games left and if they win all of them, they will reach eight points maximum. With this, India and South Africa, who have 12 and 10 points respectively, will be ahead of the UK-based team. On the other hand, if Australia and New Zealand manage to lose their remaining three games each (they have eight points each), England can equal them (if they win their remaining games).

Also, the 2019 winners need to win by handsome margins in their remaining games. However, if the 2015 finalists, Australia and New Zealand win at least one game each, this will mean England will have no chance of defending their title.

England’s remaining games

England vs Australia – November 4 – Ahmedabad

England vs Netherlands – November 8 – Pune

England vs Pakistan – November 11 – Kolkata

Australia’s remaining games

Australia vs England

Australia vs Afghanistan – November 7 – Mumbai

Australia vs Bangladesh – November 11 – Pune

New Zealand’s remaining games

New Zealand vs South Africa – November 1 – Pune

New Zealand vs Pakistan – November 4 – Bangalore

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka – November 9 – Bangalore

It is worth noting that even if England wins their remaining games and Australia, and New Zealand manage to lose their remaining games, England’s qualification isn’t ensured. Apparently, if the above-mentioned scenario goes as explained, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka need to win their remaining games so that either of the teams reaches 12 points.

Even if Sri Lanka ends up with 10 points with England, Australia, and New Zealand ends up with eight points, Sri Lanka will reach the knockouts for the first time after 2015.