Pakistan and South Africa clashed with each other in the 26th match of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. In this match, Africa got a thrilling win of one wicket and gained two valuable points to get the top position in the points table of the tournament.
Pakistan’s fast bowling trio, consisting of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and the young Mohammad Wasim Jr., put in a strong effort, causing problems for South Africa’s lower-order batsmen and almost compensating for another average performance by Pakistan’s batsmen. While 270 runs might not have been sufficient on the Chepauk pitch, the Pakistani bowlers fought hard in the chase until they were foiled by a crucial delivery from left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz.
Captain Babar Azam expressed his frustration with Mohammad Nawaz after his wayward delivery down the leg side was dispatched by Keshav Maharaj, causing Pakistan to lose the pressure they had built up following Aiden Markram’s dismissal at 91. The defeat was a painful one for Pakistan, and Babar admitted that the dressing room was deeply disappointed.
Pakistan required a victory to maintain their chances in the race for the semi-finals. However, even after the loss, Pakistan still has a chance to reach the playoffs.
To begin with, Pakistan must focus on winning their remaining three matches, and not just winning them but winning by a good margin in order to stay ahead in the Net Run Rate battle.
If Australia would lose three out of their next four matches, and specifically, they would defeat New Zealand while losing the remaining three matches. This situation would benefit Pakistan’s chances.
If Australia loses three of their next four matches, they would have 8 points, and Pakistan would have 10 points, which is favourable for Pakistan’s qualification. However, if Australia loses two of their next four matches, it still opens up a possibility for Pakistan, but they would then have to rely on Net Run Rate to secure their spot in the semi-finals.
If New Zealand would need to lose all their remaining matches, and both Sri Lanka and Afghanistan would have to lose at least two of their next four matches. This combination of results would help Pakistan to reach the semi final.