(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] Cricket fans are holding their breath, hoping for a high-stakes clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the semi-finals of the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. While the Men in Blue had a resounding victory against Pakistan earlier in the tournament, fans are eagerly anticipating a rematch that could be nothing short of epic.
For this dream match-up to materialize, Pakistan must first secure a spot in the semi-finals. Several scenarios can pave the way, but the most straightforward path would be if New Zealand, currently with eight points, loses their last match against Sri Lanka. If Pakistan triumph against England on the 11th of November, they will qualify with 10 points.
Another scenario is if rain intervenes in the game between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on the 9th of November, resulting in both teams earning one point each. In this case, Pakistan would need to win their final match against the defending champions in Kolkata to secure a semi-final berth.
These two scenarios present the most favorable conditions for Pakistan to reach the top four. However, it’s worth noting that if these scenarios play out, India and Pakistan will face off in semi-final 2 on the 16th of November.
Interestingly, the schedule also designates the venues for these semi-final matches. The teams finishing first and fourth will meet at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, while the teams finishing second and third will clash at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on the 16th of November.
However, prior to the World Cup, the International Cricket Board (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had set conditions for certain scenarios. These conditions state that if India and Pakistan are to face each other in the semi-finals, the match will be held at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, not Mumbai.
The ICC has clarified this situation, saying, “If India qualify for the semifinals, they will play in Mumbai unless playing against Pakistan, in which case they will play in Kolkata.”
While the exact reason for this condition has not been disclosed, it’s been revealed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had made the request to the governing body. Nevertheless, if a repeat of the 2011 World Cup showdown happens, it will undoubtedly be a cricketing spectacle. The last time India and Pakistan faced off in the semi-finals of the ODI World Cup in 2011, India emerged victorious, and also ended up clinching the prestigious cup for the second time in history.