Pakistan’s victory over New Zealand in the 35th match of the ICC World Cup 2023 has breathed new life into their campaign, keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the semifinals. However, their path to the World Cup semifinal remains challenging, and their fate is intertwined with the results of other matches.
To secure a semifinal berth, Pakistan not only needs to defeat England but also relies on several specific outcomes in other matches. The Men in Green are dependent on New Zealand losing to Sri Lanka, and they need Afghanistan to lose at least one of their remaining matches against Australia and South Africa. This scenario would help Pakistan advance.
In this ideal situation, India would finish at the top of the points table with 18 points, followed by South Africa with 14 points. Australia and Pakistan would both have 10 points each, but Australia’s superior net run rate would secure them the third spot, while Pakistan would claim the fourth and final semifinal berth.
Pakistan’s hopes remain alive, but their progression to the semifinals is contingent on multiple variables falling in their favor. It sets the stage for exciting and nerve-wracking matches as they seek to fulfill their World Cup aspirations.
