ICC World Cup 2023 Qualification Scenarios: Here’s how Afghanistan can still qualify for semi-final?

Afghanistan's stocks in international cricket are rising by the day and their players are doing an excellent job of putting smiles on the faces of their passionate supporters.

After 30 matches in the ODI World Cup 2023, all 10 teams have a chance to make it to the semi-finals. While there are teams in the bottom half of the table with only mathematical chances of qualifying for the semi-finals, Afghanistan have things in their own hands due to their surreal performances in the marquee event thus far.

After suffering convincing defeats against Bangladesh and India to start their campaign, Hashmatullah Shahidi's men have bounced back strongly to defeat England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka with consummate ease. The 'Blue Tigers' currently have three wins (six points) from six games and are placed at No. 5 on the points table. They have three matches remaining and can finish on a maximum of 12 points. Given how things stand, only four other teams can finish with 12 points. India already have 12 in the bank while South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia are the other teams who can reach to the 12-point mark.

Afghanistan have games left against the Netherlands (November 3), Australia (November 7), and South Africa (November 10). If Australia, who have eight points from six games, win all their remaining matches in the ODI World Cup except the one against Afghanistan, they will finish on 12 points. If Afghanistan can win all their remaining games, they will also end on 12 and the team with the better net run-rate (NRR) will progress further. Currently, Australia have a NRR of +0.970, while Afghanistan's is -0.718.

New Zealand also have eight points from six games and have games against South Africa, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka left. However, their NRR (+1.232) is way better than the likes of Australia and Afghanistan.

Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table