BENGALURU: Pakistan’s next match against New Zealand, scheduled for November 4 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in India, is under threat due to rain expected on the day, dampening the Green Shirts’ hopes of improving at the 2023 World Cup.
The weather forecast shows a significant 70% to 80% chance of rain on Saturday afternoon in Bangalore, which could possibly affect the outcome of the game.
It may be noted that it is crucial for Pakistan to secure a win by a significant margin against the Kiwis this weekend. An 84-run win can put Pakistan ahead of New Zealand in the tournament rankings. Moreover, chasing down the target in 35 overs can also give them an advantage.
However, it may not be possible if it is rained out and both teams will receive one point each in the event of a match deduction, which would have no bearing on net run rate calculations.
Meanwhile, South Africa defeated New Zealand by 190 runs in the 32nd match, which slightly helped Pakistan’s chances as Babar Azam and Co’s road to the World Cup semi-final remains difficult with many hurdles in between.
As it is necessary for Pakistan to win their remaining matches, in an ideal scenario, the Green Shirts should beat New Zealand in the next game and hope that the Black Caps lose to Sri Lanka.
If the Blackcaps lose their matches, they will end the group stage with eight points and Pakistan can qualify for the knockout stage with 10 points if they beat their next two opponents.
Pakistan is currently in fifth place with six points while New Zealand is in fourth place with eight points.
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