In a pivotal turn of events, Pakistan’s crushing 228-run defeat against India in the Asia Cup’s Super 4 stage has shifted them down the points table, putting Sri Lanka ahead. The daunting task of chasing 357 runs proved too much for Pakistan, as the Indian duo, K.L. Rahul and Virat Kohli, showcased exceptional performance with centuries.
Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav played a stellar role, clinching five wickets for a mere 25 runs, marking India’s largest-ever victory (by runs) over Pakistan in One Day International (ODI) cricket.
Now, Pakistan finds itself in a must-win situation against Sri Lanka on September 14 to secure a spot in the Asia Cup final. However, their fate also hinges on Sri Lanka and Bangladesh losing their matches to India.
India, bolstered by their remarkable victory, now leads the Super 4 standings and can solidify their position in the final with a win against Sri Lanka. In this scenario, Bangladesh will be eliminated, and the winner of the Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka match will face India in the final on Sunday.
In the event of a washout on Thursday, the team with the superior net run rate between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will advance to the final.
As it stands, Sri Lanka holds the second position with a favorable Net Run Rate (+0.420) compared to Pakistan’s (-1.892). India maintains a lead of 207 runs in the NRR over Sri Lanka. Even if they lose on Tuesday by a margin, their NRR will still be higher than Sri Lanka’s.
For Pakistan to overtake India’s NRR, they need to bridge a gap of approximately 300 runs. They have a better chance of surpassing Sri Lanka in this regard.
Should Sri Lanka triumph over India, Bangladesh might have a shot. However, Bangladesh would need a convincing victory against India, and Pakistan would have to lose to Sri Lanka. If Sri Lanka secures a 150-run lead over India, Bangladesh must secure a lead of about 125 runs to outperform in NRR.
If Sri Lanka manages to upset both India and Pakistan in the Super 4 stage, the reigning champion could secure a spot in the Asia Cup final.
