What will happen to Pakistan's CWC 2023 semi-final hopes if rain plays spoilsport in game against New Zealand?

New Zealand are all set to face former champions Pakistan in a crucial ODI World Cup 2023 encounter in Bengaluru, on Saturday, November 4. There is a high possibility of rain playing spoilsport for this virtual quarter-final clash. Pakistan's hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals will take a massive hit if the game is abandoned as there is no reserve day.

Pakistan's four-match losing streak came to an end in their last game, as they comprehensively defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets. The 'Men in Green' have three wins and four losses in their kitty after playing seven matches. They will now look to pile on New Zealand's misery as the Blackcaps have slumped to three consecutive defeats after starting their World Cup campaign with four wins in a row.

A win for Pakistan will take them on equal points with New Zealand after playing the same number of matches as Kane Williamson's men. Pakistan's net run rate is -0.024, while that of New Zealand is +0.484. The net run rate (NRR) could be a crucial factor to keep an eye on.

However, if the match gets washed out, Pakistan and New Zealand will get one point each. In this case, the Babar Azam-led side will be able to finish at a maximum of nine points if they win against England. Then, the former champions will have to hope for mess-ups from at least two teams out of Australia, New Zealand, and Afghanistan.

Kane Williamson returns to New Zealand's playing XI

The legendary Kane Williamson has recovered from the thumb injury he suffered earlier in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 and is set to play only his second match in the marquee event. He came out for the toss as the Chinnaswamy crowd greeted him with a massive roar of approval.

For the unversed, Williamson played in the game against Bangladesh on October 13, in Chennai. He scored a neat half-century before being hit on his thumb by a throw. Later, it was revealed that the 33-year-old had suffered a fracture on his thumb. After missing four matches, Williamson is finally back and he will look to inspire his troops and end the frustrating losing streak ahead of the business end of the tournament.

Also Check: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Teams & Squads