The ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 is approaching its business end, with India, South Africa, and Australia already securing spots in the semi-finals. The battle for the fourth spot is now between New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, all of whom are currently tied on eight points from eight matches. New Zealand currently holds the advantage with a net run-rate of +0.398, followed by Pakistan with +0.036, and Afghanistan with -0.338.
New Zealand’s last match is scheduled against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on Thursday, while Pakistan will face England in Kolkata on Saturday, and Afghanistan will take on South Africa in Ahmedabad on Friday. If all three teams win their matches, the team with the best run-rate will progress to the semi-finals. However, New Zealand faces an additional concern as rain is predicted in Bengaluru on Friday. If their match against Sri Lanka gets washed out, they will only earn one point, making it crucial for Pakistan and Afghanistan to win their matches in order to have a chance at the semi-finals. Pakistan currently holds a much better run-rate than Afghanistan.
According to accuweather.com, there are chances of rain in Bengaluru throughout Thursday, adding to New Zealand’s worries. The Kiwis’ campaign has hit a disappointing phase after their early dominance, and they must rediscover their bowling prowess to revive their World Cup hopes. A defeat or washout in their last league match could potentially eliminate them from the tournament. Currently, New Zealand sits in fourth place on the points table, with Pakistan and Afghanistan also on eight points and the possibility of reaching ten points with wins in their final league matches.
It is clear that New Zealand’s bowling has been their weak point, as their batting has not collapsed except for their match against South Africa. The Kiwi bowlers have struggled to contain runs and lacked a clear strategy in critical moments. Even experienced bowlers like Trent Boult and Tim Southee have operated without a backup plan. Left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner has been a standout performer, but relying on part-time off-spin from players like Glenn Phillips has proven to be risky. The New Zealand bowlers have struggled to apply pressure on opposition batters, especially in the middle and end overs.
In their upcoming match against Sri Lanka, New Zealand must regroup quickly and rectify their bowling weaknesses. While Sri Lanka may not possess the same firepower as Pakistan, they still have capable batters in Pathum Nissanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama who can cause damage if the Kiwi bowlers don’t step up. A victory in this match will keep New Zealand in contention for the semi-finals, albeit with a challenging road ahead.
Overall, the race for the fourth spot in the ODI Cricket World Cup is heating up, with New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan vying for the remaining semi-final spot. The outcome will depend on the results of their upcoming matches and the net run-rate.
