Pakistan’s chances of securing a semifinal spot in the Cricket World Cup 2023 have become slim after New Zealand’s convincing five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka. Unless Pakistan and Afghanistan achieve massive wins against England and South Africa respectively, the Kiwis will undoubtedly secure the fourth and final semifinal berth. India, South Africa, and Australia have already secured their places in the final four, and New Zealand is now on the verge of entering the knockout stage following their impressive win over Sri Lanka.
Currently positioned fifth in the standings with eight points from eight matches, Pakistan faces a daunting task in their upcoming match against England in Kolkata on Saturday. If Pakistan bats first, they will need to win by a margin of 287 runs. If they chase, Pakistan will have to secure victory with more than 47 overs (284 balls) to spare.
Despite the odds being stacked against Pakistan, it is expected that New Zealand will face India in the first semifinal, scheduled to be held at the Wankhede Stadium on November 15.
The second semifinal is confirmed to be a clash between five-time champions Australia and South Africa, who, along with India, have one more game remaining in the league stage.
India, with a flawless record in the league stage, having won all eight of their matches so far, is the clear favorite in their final group clash against the Netherlands on Sunday.
Prior to that, South Africa will face Afghanistan, who are also almost out of semifinal contention, in Ahmedabad on Friday. Meanwhile, Australia will battle Bangladesh in Pune on Saturday.
It seems unlikely that Pakistan will make it to the semifinals, but the remaining matches promise exciting matchups as the teams vie for a spot in the knockout stage.
