England Enter T20 World Cup Semis; Pakistan on Edge

England became the first team to qualify for the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup after a thrilling two-wicket win over Pakistan in Kandy on Tuesday.

Captain Harry Brook led from the front with a brilliant century. England had already defeated Sri Lanka national cricket team in their opening Super 8 match. With two wins from two games, England now have four points in Group 2 and have secured their place in the last four.

Pakistan’s Qualification Hopes

For Pakistan national cricket team, the situation is difficult. Their earlier match against New Zealand national cricket team in Colombo was washed out due to rain, giving them just one point from two matches.

Pakistan still have a mathematical chance to qualify. They must first defeat Sri Lanka in their final Super 8 match. In addition, they need New Zealand to lose both of their remaining matches. If New Zealand win one and lose one, qualification will depend on net run rate. In that case, Pakistan must ensure a better overall performance with both bat and ball. Any other result will end Pakistan’s campaign.

Sri Lanka’s Scenario

Sri Lanka’s hopes depend heavily on their match against New Zealand. A loss would almost end their semi-final chances. A win would move them to two points and second place in the group. However, they would still need to defeat Pakistan in their final match to stay in contention.

Group 1 Update

In Group 1, West Indies cricket team are at the top after a strong win over Zimbabwe national cricket team. South Africa national cricket team are level on points after beating India national cricket team.

West Indies need just one more win from their remaining two matches to qualify. South Africa are also in a strong position, with matches left against Zimbabwe and West Indies.

Pre-tournament favourites India are under pressure. Even if they beat West Indies and Zimbabwe, net run rate could decide their fate depending on other results.

Zimbabwe face a tough task after their heavy loss to West Indies. To have any real chance of reaching the semi-finals, they must win both their remaining matches against India and South Africa, and by big margins.

As the tournament enters its final stage, every match and every run will now play a crucial role in deciding the semi-final line-up.