Three matches remain in Group 1 with only one semi-final spot still available. Australia have almost certainly advanced to the final four, but South Africa and India both have a chance to go through.  

The cricket lords will have to smile on Bangladesh to give them the last semi-final spot, but it is not completely impossible.

It will all come down to the outcome of Sunday’s double-header when Australia face India and South Africa play Bangladesh. South Africa and India are both on six points, with Bangladesh on four points and Australia with eight points, and by far the highest net run rate (NRR).  

Tazmin Brits and Laura Wolvaardt. Photo: X/Africa Fact Zone

The cricket experts at ESPN Cricinfo calculated all the outcomes based on possible results in the two matches.

If both Australia and South Africa win, Australia will take top spot with South Africa in second place. In almost every other scenario, it will be Australia and India that will go through to the semi-finals.

National pride

On Saturday (27/6), three matches will be played. Pakistan is taking on the Netherlands, but both teams are already out of contention and will play for national pride only. 

In the second match of the day, the West Indies will play Ireland in Bristol. If the Windies win, they will go through to the semi-final, but if they lose, their semi-final hopes will depend on England beating New Zealand in the final match of the day.

England vs New Zealand. Photo: X/England Cricket

Hosts England have qualified by winning all four of their matches in the tournament, but defending champions New Zealand could still book a spot in the final four if Ireland beat the West Indies and the White Ferns are victorious over England.

South Africa’s clash against Bangladesh at Lord’s in St John’s Wood gets underway at 11:00, before Australia faces India at 15:30.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger dg