Colombo: The race for the semi-finals in the T20 World Cup has entered a decisive phase, with the unprecedented possibility emerging that no Asian team may qualify for the last four.
India’s position has become uncertain following a defeat to South Africa. The team still has crucial fixtures remaining against Zimbabwe and the West Indies. Should the West Indies manage to defeat South Africa, they could also enter the semi-final race, further complicating the qualification scenario.
Pakistan finds itself in a similar predicament. The team must secure a mandatory victory against Sri Lanka in its final group-stage match while also relying on favorable results from other matches to stay in contention.
Net run rate could prove decisive. New Zealand currently holds a superior net run rate of +3.050 compared to Pakistan’s -0.461, meaning Pakistan must not only win but also significantly improve its run rate. If New Zealand loses its final match against England, Pakistan’s chances of qualification would remain alive.
Sri Lanka has already been eliminated after losing to New Zealand, while Afghanistan failed to reach the Super Eight stage. Bangladesh did not participate in the tournament in protest.
With qualification scenarios growing increasingly complex, the tournament could witness a historic outcome if no Asian side manages to reach the semi-finals for the first time.
