Cricket is an unpredictable game and the performance of team Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup has proved this beyond any doubt. The inconsistent journey of the men in green not only has left cricketing fans depressed but has also raised serious concerns for PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board).
Pakistan lost two extremely close matches, first against India on the final ball and then against Zimbabwe, also on the final delivery. Also, the absence of a fast bowling all-rounder limited the options leaving the team imbalanced. Now the important question is, does Pakistan still have a chance to make it to the semis? Let’s Analyze
A Look At The Points Table
South Africa: Played: 3, Points: 5, NRR: 2.772, Rem matches: vs Pak, Neth
India: Played: 3, Points: 4, NRR: 0.844, Rem matches: vs Ban, Zim
Bangladesh: Played: 3, Points: 4, NRR: -1.533, Rem matches: vs Ind, Pak
Zimbabwe: Played: 3, Points: 3, NRR: -0.050, Rem matches: vs Neth, Ind
Pakistan: Played: 3, Points: 2, NRR: 0.765, Rem matches: vs SA, Ban
Netherlands: Played: 3, Points: 0, NRR: -1.948, Rem matches: vs Zim, SA
What Are The Chances?
The current facts state that Pakistan must win each of its final three games. If Bangladesh beats India, and then themselves beat South Africa by a huge margin on a net run rate basis. Also, if Zimbabwe wins their next two games (unlikely as it sounds) will draw curtains for Pakistan. Weather can also be a threat which could hamper any of the team’s qualifications chances.
Pakistan Has to give it all
Pakistan’s chances have been hurt by South Africa’s win against India. Pakistan can finish on a maximum of six points, while South Africa will go up to seven if they beat the Netherlands. However, if India loses one of their two remaining games and finishes on six, then it could yet be an NRR battle between the arch-rivals. If all these conditions are met, Pakistan may still qualify for the semi-finals.
