In the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, India has shown its dominance, securing the top position in the points table, setting the stage for an exciting semi-final clash. The match against arch-rivals Pakistan at the bustling Narendra Modi Stadium was a testament to India’s prowess, leaving fans in a frenzy as Rohit Sharma’s men sealed a one-sided victory. As they prepare for the semi-finals, let’s explore the possible scenarios that could lead to a face-off between India and Pakistan in the semi-final.

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1. The Net Run-rate Battle:

Currently, three teams – New Zealand, Pakistan, and Afghanistan – find themselves in a tight spot with eight points each. New Zealand holds the upper hand with the best Net Run Rate (NRR), placing them fourth, followed by Pakistan and Afghanistan. All three teams are potential semi-final contenders.

• New Zealand is set to clash with Sri Lanka, and Pakistan will face England in their upcoming matches.
• If New Zealand loses to Sri Lanka and Pakistan triumphs over England, Pakistan will secure 10 points, pushing them ahead in the competition.
• However, for this scenario to materialize, Pakistan would hope for Afghanistan to lose at least one of their remaining two matches against Australia and South Africa. This would equalize the points and bring NRR into play.
• In the event that Afghanistan loses both of their matches, Pakistan will qualify for the semi-finals.
• If both Pakistan and New Zealand win their last matches and Afghanistan faces defeat against Australia and South Africa, the NRR will determine India’s semi-final opponent.

2. Rain Interruption:

Another intriguing scenario revolves around the weather. If New Zealand manages to defeat Sri Lanka and the Pakistan vs. England match is rained out, the 1992 champions, Pakistan, will face elimination from the tournament.

Conversely, if the situation is reversed and Pakistan secures a victory, they will accumulate 10 points. However, their fate will still hang in the balance, depending on Afghanistan’s performance in their final two fixtures.

3. Australia’s Standpoint:

Meanwhile, Australia is also in the mix with 10 points, and they have two matches left, one against Afghanistan and the other against Bangladesh. A victory in either of these matches would propel the five-time champions into the semi-finals.

As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 unfolds, the potential for an India vs. Pakistan semi-final clash adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the tournament.

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Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the unfolding of these scenarios, which will determine the final four teams vying for the coveted championship title.