New Zealand dashes Pakistan's semi-final hopes

BENGALURU: New Zealand defeated Sri Lanka by 5 wickets in the crucial match of the World Cup and almost sealed their ticket to the semi-finals. Batting first, Sri Lanka were all out for 171 runs in 46.4 overs. In reply, New Zealand reached the target (172/5) losing 5 wickets in just 23.2 overs.

New Zealand, who remain at the fourth position with 10 points including 5 wins, have kept the semi-expectation alive with an excellent run rate (+0.743). Fifth-ranked Pakistan and sixth-ranked Afghanistan will have to wait for miracles for the point table to turn in their favour. Both teams should win their remaining matches by a very high margin to keep aflame the semi hopes.

If batting first against England, Pakistan need to win by 287 runs to get past New Zealand and play India in the semi-final. If England set a target of 150 runs, Pakistan need to cross the target in at least 3.4 overs to lead the net run rate. If the target is 200 runs. it should be covered in 4.2 overs.

Afghanistan can surpass New Zealand's net run rate if they win by 438 runs against South Africa. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will end the World Cup losing seven of the nine matches they played.