T20 WC: SL Out, Pakistan Face Do Or Die Scenario!

Sri Lanka’s exit from the T20 World Cup has made the semi final race more intense for Pakistan. However, their hopes are still alive. The latest result has pushed them into a must win situation with very little margin for error.

New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 61 runs on February 25 in Colombo. The victory boosted New Zealand’s Net Run Rate significantly. As a result, Pakistan have slipped to a difficult position in Group 2.

New Zealand now hold a strong NRR of +3.050 and look set to qualify along with England. Pakistan have an NRR of -0.461. They now need favourable results and a big win to stay in contention.

Pakistan must first defeat Sri Lanka in their final Super 8 match. A simple win will not be enough to secure a semi final berth. They need a commanding victory to improve their Net Run Rate.

At the same time, Pakistan need England to beat New Zealand. If England lose the match or if rain causes a washout, Pakistan will be knocked out. In that case, New Zealand will confirm their qualification.

The margin of England’s win will also impact Pakistan’s equation. If England defeat New Zealand by around 20 runs, Pakistan may need to beat Sri Lanka by nearly 50 runs. The qualification scenario depends heavily on this result.

If Pakistan are chasing, the task becomes even tougher. For example, if Sri Lanka post 200 runs, Pakistan may need to finish the chase in about 15 overs. If the target is close to 150, they may need to chase it within 14 overs.

The only positive for Pakistan is clarity. England and New Zealand will play a day earlier. This means Pakistan will know the exact qualification equation before taking the field.

Pakistan’s chances remain slim but not impossible. Everything depends on results going in their favour. They must deliver a dominant performance and hope England defeat New Zealand to keep their T20 World Cup dream alive.