Three ways Pakistan can qualify to the semi finals of 20-20 World Cup

Pakistan Cricket Team (Source: Twitter)

Pakistan have finally got their 20-20 World Cup campaign back on track after facing back-to-back losses in their first two games. They made a strong comeback and ended up with consecutive wins against the Netherlands and South Africa. Courtesy of their improved performances, Pakistan have remained in contention for a spot in the semi-finals. The team’s hopes of advancing to the next stage of the tournament hang on a thin thread. As the tournament is heading towards its business end, let’s take at three ways Pakistan can qualify for the semi-finals of the 20-20 World Cup.

1. Netherlands beat South Africa

South Africa are placed at no 2 spot in Group 2 having won two out of their four games while their one match against Zimbabwe got washed out. The Proteas have five points to their name and a net run rate of +1.441. If they lose their next game against the Netherlands they will remain at five points. And if Pakistan manage to beat Bangladesh they will advance to the semi-finals having 6 points to their name.

2. Zimbabwe beat India

India are currently placed at the top position in Group 2 with three wins and one loss in four matches. They have six points to their name and a net run rate of +0.730. If India loses their next game against Zimbabwe, they will remain on six points and if Pakistan manages to win their next fixture against Bangladesh they will also end up with 6 points. But Pakistan will advance to the semi-finals as they have a better net run rate than India i.e +1.117.

3. Netherlands vs South Africa game gets washed out

If South Africa’s last game against the Netherlands gets washed out they will finish with six points. And if Pakistan emerge victorious in their last fixture against Bangladesh they will seal the semi-final spot even if they don’t have a better net run rate than South Africa as the net run rate will not come into play due to Pakistan having more wins(3) than South Africa(2).