ODI World Cup 2023: Here’s how updated semi-final qualification scenario looks like for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and New Zealand

The clash between New Zealand, Pakistan and Afghanistan for the 4th semi-final spot is getting intense as there is a tough battle between these teams to get the spot. All the 3 teams have 8 points after 8 matches, however, the Blackcaps are ahead with an impressive run rate. 

The team which will end up on the league stage in the 4th position will have to face India who are currently unbeaten and set to finish as the table toppers. However, for that, they first need to qualify.

On that note, let’s take a look at what each of these teams need to do to qualify for the coveted semi-final spot. 

New Zealand: The encounter between Sri Lanka and the Kane Williamson-led New Zealand is set on November 9 at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium. In addition, they will have to hope desperately that Pakistan, captained by Babar Azam, defeats Jos Buttler’s England by a margin of fewer than 130 runs in the worst-case scenario.

Pakistan: In the meanwhile, Pakistan must defeat England on November 11 by at least 130 runs and hope that Sri Lanka defeats New Zealand; else, the match is expected to be called off due to severe rain in Bengaluru on Thursday. 

Afghanistan: Afghanistan, captained by Hashmatullah Shahidi, might have advanced to the semifinals more easily if Maxwell hadn’t scored an incredible 201 on Tuesday. They now need to defeat South Africa, headed by Temba Bavuma, on November 10 at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. Not only that but in order to make history by reaching the World Cup semifinals for the first time ever, they also need to pray that Sri Lanka defeats New Zealand and England triumphs over Pakistan. 

The net run rate is relevant for Pakistan and New Zealand, but the scenario for Afghanistan is simpler. If New Zealand defeats Sri Lanka, then Babar Azam’s team will have their work cut out when they play England because of the latter’s higher net run rate than Pakistan’s. Pakistan must defeat England by a margin of about 130 runs, which is also the amount by which New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka.