New Zealand’s resounding victory over Sri Lanka in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 has cast a shadow of uncertainty over Pakistan’s prospects of reaching the semifinals. Before the Kiwis’ triumph, Pakistan and New Zealand were neck and neck with 8 points each, but the Kiwis’ substantial Net Run Rate (NRR) advantage now threatens to eliminate Pakistan.

To stay in the race for the World Cup semifinals, Babar Azam’s Pakistan faces a Herculean task against England. They must defeat the defending champions by a staggering 287 runs. Additionally, winning the toss and opting to bat first is imperative for Pakistan, as letting England bat first would compound their already formidable challenge.

While fans may have dreamt of an India-Pakistan semifinal clash, the reality is stark. Pakistan needs to set a massive target if they bat first. To qualify, they must win by a margin of 287 runs. If they are chasing, they have to bowl out England for under 50 runs and chase the target of 51 within two overs. Alternatively, if England manages to score 100, Pakistan has to complete the chase in just three overs.

Pakistan’s fate now hinges on their encounter with England on November 11 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. It’s a must-win situation, and even that may not be enough to secure a spot in the semifinals.

The road to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinals has become treacherous for Babar Azam’s team. Their dreams hang by a thread, and it remains to be seen if they can pull off an astonishing victory against England and keep their hopes alive.

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