Pakistan did not get off to the desired start to their World T20 2022 campaign and are yet to open their account in the tournament after back-to-back defeats. Virat Kohli’s unbeaten knock of 82 in Melbourne last Sunday prevented Pakistan from emulating their historic feat in Dubai 12 months ago as they lost their World Cup opener by four wickets. Three nights later, the Babar Azam-led side suffered a shock defeat to Zimbabwe in Perth, leaving their campaign in the balance.
The double defeat has dented Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup, but they are still in contention with a mathematical chance.
READ: “WC jeetne kiliye gadhe ko bhi baap banana padta hai”: An angry Akram questioned Babarda Malik after Zimbabwe’s defeat.
How can Pakistan qualify for the T20 World Cup semi-finals?
Pakistan are currently fifth in the table and are only the second team apart from the Netherlands who are yet to pick up a point in Group 2 of the World T20 Super 12s. Their net rate of -0.050 separates them from the Netherlands (-1.625). Pakistan, of course, need to win their remaining three games – against the Netherlands (Perth), Bangladesh (Adelaide) and South Africa (Sydney) – to have any chance of reaching the semi-finals. However, Pakistan will depend heavily on other factors as well.
If Pakistan wins the next three games, the maximum score is six points. India are currently the best placed team in the group and with three games left for them, they are expected to reach the semi-finals. With two more wins, India will finish top of Group 2 and qualify for the semi-finals. Even if they win one more, a higher NRR will give them an advantage in the race for the semi-finals.
Pakistan need to win one of their remaining three games between South Africa and Zimbabwe to realize their semi-final dream. Two wins would put second-placed South Africa seven points ahead of Pakistan. Ditto for Zimbabwe, who are third in the group with three points.
Remaining matches of Group 2
Sunday 30 October: Bangladesh v Zimbabwe, Gabba, Brisbane
Sunday 30 October: Netherlands v Pakistan, Perth Stadium
Sunday, October 30: India v South Africa, Perth Stadium
Wednesday 02 November: Zimbabwe v Netherlands, Adelaide Oval
Wednesday 02 November: India v Bangladesh, Adelaide Oval
Thursday 03 November: Pakistan v South Africa, SCG, Sydney
Sunday 06 November: South Africa v Netherlands, Adelaide Oval
Sunday 06 November: Pakistan v Bangladesh, Adelaide Oval
Sunday 06 November: Zimbabwe v India, MCG, Melbourne