India’s loss to Australia in the Women’s T20 World Cup has put them in a tricky position. With the defeat, Australia secured their place in the semi-finals, while India’s path is now uncertain. The battle for the second semi-final spot in Group A is between India, New Zealand, and Pakistan. Let’s break down what India needs to secure their spot in the semi-finals.
Current Group A Standings
Group A consists of five teams. Australia, with 8 points from 4 matches, has already qualified for the semi-finals. Sri Lanka, with no wins, is out of the competition. India and New Zealand both have 4 points, while Pakistan sits with 2 points. India holds a slight edge in net run rate at 0.322, followed closely by New Zealand at 0.282. Pakistan’s net run rate, however, is in negative territory at -0.488.
How India Can Still Qualify for the Semi-Finals
India’s only chance to make it to the semi-finals lies in the upcoming Pakistan vs New Zealand match. For India to progress, Pakistan must defeat New Zealand. However, there’s a catch—Pakistan’s margin of victory must be 52 runs or less. If Pakistan wins by 53 runs or more, they will leapfrog India into the semi-finals due to their improved net run rate.
If New Zealand wins the match, they will advance to the semi-finals with 6 points, eliminating both India and Pakistan from contention.
What If the Match Gets Canceled Due to Rain?
If rain disrupts the Pakistan-New Zealand match, and it ends up being canceled, both teams will receive one point each. This scenario benefits New Zealand directly, as they will finish with 5 points, securing the second semi-final spot and leaving India and Pakistan out of the running.
What Happens if the Match Is Tied?
If the Pakistan vs New Zealand match ends in a tie, a Super Over will determine the winner. The team that wins the Super Over will earn 2 points. If New Zealand wins the Super Over, they will proceed to the semi-finals with 6 points. On the other hand, if Pakistan wins the Super Over, the net run rate will come into play to decide whether India or Pakistan advances to the semi-finals.
India’s Missed Opportunity Against Australia
India’s position became complicated after their 9-run loss to Australia. Chasing 151, India was in a good position, needing 14 runs off the final over with 5 wickets in hand and captain Harmanpreet Kaur at the crease. However, Australian bowler Annabel Sutherland turned the game around by taking 4 wickets in the final over, restricting India to 142 for 9.
