For Pakistan, the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 journey has reached a crucial juncture, thanks to the famous “Qudrat ka Nizam”. The team green has now found themselves in a precarious position, thanks to their unrealistic and unpredictable approach in the ICC events. Let’s discuss their chances of reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup.
The Current Situation
In today’s match versus New Zealand, Pakistan was 160 with one wicket down (Abdullah Shafiq) at 21.3 overs, when the rain came down for the first time. It went on for about an hour due to which the encounter was reduced to 41 overs per side, Pakistan now needed 182 runs in 117 balls, with the target reduced to 342 runs.
But due to some explosive batting by Fakhar Zaman, who scored a gritty hundred, and Babar Azam’s classical innings, Pakistan looked comfortable in the middle. It had only been a couple of overs since the start of play when rain started for the second time. This time, it was here to stay. Pakistan had scored 190 plus runs in 25.3, which allowed them to lead on DLS with about 21 runs. Hence, Pakistan won the match by 21 runs, as it was abandoned.
Possible Scenarios for Qualification
Scenario 1: You Defeat the English, Sri Lanka defeats the Kiwis
If “Qudrat ka Nizam” wants to work for Pakistan, there must be a great deal of courage shown by the shaheens as well. To secure a spot in the Semis, there is an uphill journey from here on out. Pakistan would need to beat England in their last group-stage game. Additionally, they would have to rely on Sri Lanka to defeat New Zealand.
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Scenario 2: New Zealand Wins Against Sri Lanka
If New Zealand, manages to defeat Srilankans, and that is by the barest of margins, the task of reaching the Semi-Finals becomes even more daunting for Pakistan. New Zealand would have to win by 1 run or chase on the last ball, to give the slightest of chances to Pakistan for qualification through “Qudrat ka Nizam”.
To surpass New Zealand’s Net Run Rate (NRR), Pakistan will have to defeat England by a margin of 132 runs or finish the match with 22 or more overs to spare, assuming that the first innings total was 300.
Conclusion:
While Pakistan’s fate lies to a considerable extent in its own hands, they are also dependent on the outcomes of other matches. The hope of Sri Lanka defeating New Zealand and England falling to Pakistan becomes pivotal for their chances.
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