Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has opened up about Babar Azam’s side’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals of the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023 in India.
Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in an impressive batting display in the 31st match of the ongoing ICC World Cup 2023 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India, on Tuesday.
Despite an important win, Pakistan's road to the semi-final of the World Cup remains difficult with many hurdles in between.
As it is essential for Pakistan to win their remaining matches, in an ideal scenario, the Green Shirts require New Zealand to lose their remaining matches as they have eight points from six games. If the Black Caps lose their next three matches, they'd end the group stage with eight points, and Pakistan can qualify for the knockout stage with 10 points should they beat their next three opponents.
While speaking on Haarna Mana Hay, Amir said that it is difficult to see New Zealand and Australia lose their remaining matches.
“As a Muslim we believe that we need prayers but anything can happen in cricket. New Zealand can lose both matches by a big margin. Even Australia can lose but if we look at the reality it seems, considering the way they are playing cricket, difficult,” said Amir.
Pakistan’s remaining ICC World Cup 2023 matches
November 4 - vs New Zealand Bengaluru (Day match)
November 11 - vs England in Kolkata
The day matches which will start at 10:00am Pakistan Standard Time (PST) while all other matches will be day-night fixtures starting at 01:30pm (PST).
If Pakistan qualify for the semi-finals, they will play in Kolkata.
If India qualify for the semi-finals, they will play in Mumbai unless playing against Pakistan, in which case they will play in Kolkata.
- Mohammad Amir