Afghanistan’s hopes of advancing to the next round of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup are no longer entirely in their own hands after consecutive defeats to New Zealand and South Africa in Group D.
With only two teams progressing, New Zealand and South Africa currently lead the standings with four points each from two matches. Afghanistan, having already faced both unbeaten sides, remain on zero points with a net run rate of -0.555.
Although qualification is still mathematically possible, Afghanistan’s fate now depends on other results.
To stay in contention, Afghanistan must win their remaining two matches against the United Arab Emirates and Canada. That would take them to four points. However, even if they secure both victories, progression will hinge on the outcome of the upcoming matches of New Zealand and South Africa.
If either New Zealand or South Africa remaining two games and finish on four points, Afghanistan could potentially force a tie for second place. In such a scenario, net run rate would determine who advances — meaning Afghanistan would likely need convincing wins to significantly boost their negative net run rate.
However, if the New Zealand–South Africa match ends without a result, both teams would move to five points, which would eliminate Afghanistan regardless of their performances in the remaining fixtures.
In short, Afghanistan can still qualify, but it is no longer within their control. They must win big — and hope other results fall their way. (Newswire)
