The war-torn country of Afghanistan is facing the mighty Australia in their eighth match of the ODI World Cup this year. Only if they beat the five-time world champions can they stay in contention for a place in the semi-finals.
The Australia-Afghanistan match will start at 2:30 PM at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday.
Australia has already taken one step on the way to the semi-finals by winning five of the seven matches. If Afghanistan are defeated today, David Warner’s semi-final will be completely confirmed. Then their opponent is Bangladesh.
There is a possibility in front of Afghanistan as well. But that path is very difficult. Because, with the way Australia has returned to form, it will be difficult for the Afghan forces to beat them. In the next game, their opponents are South Africa, the top favorites of this season.
Afghanistan is likely to lose both these games. But nothing is impossible on the cricket field. Incidents happen often. This has happened several times. As a result, Nabi-Rashidra can only dream of playing in the semi-finals. If the accident happens!
Meanwhile, Pakistan-New Zealand is also ahead in the semi race. Both teams have one game left. Next, Pakistan will play against England, and New Zealand will play against Sri Lanka. Those who win will advance to the semis.
But if both the teams win, then the run rate will be calculated. Those who will be ahead will get the opportunity to play the semi-finals.
And if Afghanistan win both their matches, then the run rate will be between the three teams. Even in that case, however, the Afghans will be left behind. As a result, they have to win both matches to play in the semi-finals and on the other hand both Pakistan-New Zealand teams have to lose.
As a result, it goes without saying that the path to the semi-finals is very difficult for the Afghans. For now, let’s leave that difficult calculation and see if Rashid Khanra can show any surprise in today’s match against Australia.
(07 November/AJ)