Find out how Pakistan can still make it to the Asia Cup final despite a crushing loss to India. The drama unfolds here!
In a stunning display of cricket, Team India, led by captain Rohit Sharma, handed Pakistan one of its most significant losses in the history of One Day International (ODI) cricket. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, both scoring centuries, were the stars of the match. Their unbeaten knocks helped India post a formidable total in the Super 4 phase of the Asia Cup 2023, held at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The duo's performance led to a massive 228-run win over Pakistan in a rain-affected game.
Pakistan's Struggle and Injuries
Chasing a daunting target of 357 runs, Pakistan's team, captained by Babar Azam, could only manage 128/8 in 32 overs. The team's performance was further hampered by injuries to bowlers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, who did not bat. Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav shone with figures of 5/25, ensuring India's biggest win over Pakistan in ODI history.
India Takes the Lead in Super 4 Standings
The victory has propelled India to the top of the Super 4 standings in the Asia Cup 2023. India is set to face defending Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in its next Super 4 match.
Pakistan's Remaining Hopes
Despite the loss, all is not lost for Pakistan. They had previously outclassed Bangladesh and now have one match left in the Super 4 stage against Sri Lanka. Currently, Pakistan trails Sri Lanka in the Super 4 standings, while Bangladesh is virtually out of the race for the final spots.
The Road Ahead for Pakistan
As per the current Super 4 points table, Sri Lanka has a superior net run rate compared to Pakistan. To keep their hopes alive, Pakistan must defeat Sri Lanka in their final Super 4 match. If India wins its remaining matches against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, they will secure their place in the final, making it easier for Pakistan to qualify.
The Scenarios for Final Qualification
If Sri Lanka manages to defeat both India and Pakistan, they will automatically qualify for the Asia Cup final. In that case, Pakistan would only have an outside chance if India loses to Bangladesh. However, if India defeats Sri Lanka, the net run rate will become irrelevant, setting up a virtual quarter-final between Pakistan and Sri Lanka to determine the second finalist.
Despite the crushing defeat to India, Pakistan's journey in the Asia Cup is far from over. Their fate now hinges on upcoming matches and a bit of luck.