World Cup: Updated scenarios after Pakistan pip New Zealand and Australia defeat England
Pakistan managed to keep their faint semi-final hopes alive thanks to Fakhar Zaman’s blistering 126 not out against New Zealand in Bengaluru
New Zealand ended up on the losing side despite posting 401/6 on the board, and will have to win their final game against Sri Lanka to enter the semi-finals
In the other game on Saturday, Adam Zampa’s all-round display helped Australia defeat England by 33 runs in Ahmedabad
Australia remain at the third sport after registering their fifth win in a row, and are on the verge of joining India and South Africa in the semi-finals
The defeat however, officially ended England’s title defence, and Jos Buttler’s men will fight for Champions Trophy qualification in their remaining matches
India, meanwhile remain numero uno with seven wins in as many outings and will fight for the top spot in a blockbuster showdown against South Africa on Sunday
As for Sri Lanka and Netherlands, Pakistan’s stunning victory has allowed them to remain mathematically alive in the tournament for a little longer
Afghanistan could challenge both New Zealand and Pakistan for the fourth semi-final spot, but they face Australia and South Africa in their remaining games