How Pakistan Can Keep Semifinals Hope Alive After Surpassing New Zealand's Net-Run Rate ?
Pakistan will face New Zealand on November 4 in in the ODI World Cup 2023 at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
Crickate
Pakistan is back in play in the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. Their season appeared to be in a critical state following a string of four consecutive losses. However, Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, has broken its losing streak with a victory over Bangladesh and New Zealand has also suffered three consecutive defeats; thus, the Babar Azam-led team is once again in contention for the semifinals
Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka and the Netherlands to begin their campaign. Subsequently, South Africa, India, Australia, and Afghanistan all suffered defeats. As a result of their defeats, they were demoted to the seventh position in the standings, effectively eliminating any remaining hopes of advancing to the semifinals.
Bangladesh was defeated with seven wickets, which has significantly revitalized their campaign. At present, the Men in Green are ranked fifth in the points table and are in position to advance for the first time since 2011 to the semifinals of the ODI World Cup. In addition, New Zealand's abrupt decline in form has aided their cause.
How Pakistan can improve it's net run rate ?
Given the current state of affairs, it is not overly unexpected that the semifinalists will be determined by net run rate. It is not implausible for both Pakistan and New Zealand to conclude the league stage with an equivalent number of points.
On Saturday, both teams will have an opportunity to acquire an edge in the race when they meet in a highly anticipated contest. New Zealand will almost certainly advance to the semifinals with a victory. Alternatively, a triumph for Pakistan might not be adequate. Additionally, the team led by Babar Azam will need to improve their net run rate. At the moment, New Zealand has a net run rate of +0.484, whereas Pakistan has a -0.024 net run rate.
The forthcoming match will present an opportunity for the 1992 World Cup champions to enhance their net run rate.In order to exceed New Zealand's net run rate, they would have to secure a victory by an estimated 83 runs or complete the pursuit in approximately 35 overs.
