Semifinal Scenarios Unfold: New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan's World Cup Hopes

As the 2023 World Cup enters its decisive phase, the battle for semifinal qualification has intensified. England, the defending champions, have just crushed the Netherlands, bolstering their prospects for the ICC Champions Trophy 2024.

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As the 2023 World Cup enters its decisive phase, the battle for semifinal qualification has intensified. England, the defending champions, have just crushed the Netherlands, bolstering their prospects for the ICC Champions Trophy 2024.

In the current standings, India, Australia, and South Africa have secured their spots in the semifinals, while England, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan have been eliminated. New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan are now in a tight race for the remaining semifinal berth.

Let's delve into the scenarios for New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan to secure that last coveted semifinal spot.

New Zealand:

Despite suffering four consecutive defeats, New Zealand remains in the fourth position with a strong net run rate. They are up against Sri Lanka in their final group-stage match. A victory in this game will guarantee them a spot in the semifinals, thanks to their impressive net run rate. However, a loss will require both Pakistan and Afghanistan to lose their games as well.

Rain could play a spoilsport in the New Zealand vs. Sri Lanka match, scheduled for November 9 in Bengaluru. If the match is washed out, New Zealand will gain a point and still rely on their competitors' defeats. With a superior net run rate and considering the challenging fixtures for Pakistan and Afghanistan, New Zealand is the favorite to clinch the semifinal spot.

Pakistan:

Pakistan is currently occupying the fifth position and has gained momentum with two consecutive wins. Their last game is against England on November 11 at Eden Gardens. Pakistan will need a convincing victory and a substantial margin of runs. If they lose, they will hope for significant losses by Afghanistan and New Zealand to secure a semifinal berth based on net run rate.

Notably, Pakistan will have the advantage of knowing the required run rate as they play their last match after Afghanistan and New Zealand's fixtures.

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Afghanistan:

Afghanistan has had a historic campaign with four wins in eight games and almost pulled off an upset against Australia. However, they maintain a negative net run rate and face a formidable South African side in their last group-stage game on November 10 in Ahmedabad.

While Afghanistan's performances against higher-ranked teams have been impressive, they face the challenge of achieving a substantial win against South Africa. Additionally, they need Pakistan and New Zealand to suffer defeats in their respective games to make it to the semifinals.