Revealed: How Pakistan Can Still Qualify For World Cup Semi Final 2023? Pakistan Qualification Scenario Explained After Loss To South Africa

In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Pakistan faced a devastating one-wicket loss to South Africa in their sixth match of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. The gripping showdown unfolded at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Despite their efforts, the Men In Green faltered in defending a total of 270 runs against Temba Bavuma’s determined side.

This loss marked their fourth defeat out of six matches played thus far in the ICC World Cup 2023. With just four points to their name, they currently occupy the sixth spot in the points table.

Regrettably, Pakistan’s aspirations of advancing in the ODI World Cup now hang by a thread. While their fate is no longer within their control, there remains a faint glimmer of hope in the realm of mathematical possibilities. To secure a berth in the later stages of the tournament, Pakistan must embark on a winning streak.

In their upcoming fixtures against Bangladesh (October 31), New Zealand (November 4), and England (November 11), they must secure victories in all three encounters. This would see them accumulate 10 points. However, their prospects of topping the points table are remote, as both India and South Africa have already amassed 10 points each. With the Indian and South African teams set to face each other, at least one of them is guaranteed to accumulate more than 10 points.

How Will Pakistan Qualify For The Semi-Finals

The best-case scenario for Pakistan lies in claiming the third or fourth position in the standings. To clinch third place, they would need Australia to defeat New Zealand and then lose their subsequent matches against England (November 4), Afghanistan (November 7), and Bangladesh (November 11). In such an outcome, Australia would conclude the league stage with 8 points, and Pakistan’s triumphant streak would propel them to 10 points, potentially allowing them to edge past the five-time champions.

Additionally, Pakistan’s prospects hinge on New Zealand’s performance. They must hope for New Zealand to lose all four remaining fixtures against Australia (October 28), South Africa (November 1), Pakistan (November 4), and Sri Lanka (November 9). This would see New Zealand, who currently possess eight points from five matches, also finishing with 8 points.

Moreover, their chances necessitate that Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, England, the Netherlands, and Bangladesh each incur at least two defeats in their remaining four fixtures. If these stars align in Pakistan’s favour, they may find themselves among the semifinalists, despite four losses in six matches.

As Pakistan navigates the intricate web of possibilities, cricket enthusiasts worldwide await the unfolding drama in the quest for World Cup glory. They will face Bangladesh in their next encounter at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.