How things stand after Pakistan’s loss to Australia
Australia and India will square off in a virtual quarterfinal in Mohali on Sunday. (Source: PTI)
Pakistan lost to Australia by 21 runs earlier on Friday as things became much clearer in Group 2 of the ICC World Twenty20 Super 10’s stage. In Steve Smith, Shane Watson and James Faulkner dominated match at Mohali, Pakistan fell short and crashed out of the tournament – once again in the group stages.
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The result means the three-way battle for passage into the semifinals has now been reduced to two two teams. As things stand, New Zealand are top with three wins in three matches and six points. The Kiwis are already assured of a place in the next round irrespective of how they fare against Bangladesh.
As things stand in Group 2 after Australia’s 21-run win over Pakistan in Mohali.
In second spot are Australia with four points from three matches – two wins and a loss. Their net run rate stands at +0.440. Third in the five team list are India who also have four points after three games but are worse off in terms of net run rate at -0.546.
At the bottom of the pyramid are Bangladesh who have lost all their three matches and will be playing for pride up next against New Zealand.
READ: Pakistan crash out of World Twenty20
With India taking on Australia on Sunday, it would become crystal clear over who goes ahead depending on who wins. Thus making it a virtual quarterfinal with all to play for and no confusion of net run rate to worry about it.
THE SCENARIOS
IF INDIA WINS: If India win, they will have six points from four games as against the four points for Australia. MS Dhoni’s men then progress into the semis.
IF AUSTRALIA WINS: If Steve Smith’s men win the crucial match, they would have six points as against India’s four and go forward.
IF IT RAINS: It is cloudy and overcast in Mohali tonight. Were that trend to continue along with some showers, things will get murky and dampen India’s chances. In case of a washout and an abandoned match, both teams will get one points. Australia will move on to five points from allotted games and so will India. But then it would come down to net run rate and this would go in Australia’s favour.
