After this big victory of West Indies, it has become very difficult for the Indian team to reach the semi-finals. Now the situation is such that if the results of the remaining matches go according to the current equation, it is difficult to say what India’s fate holds. In the two matches that are now left in front of India, it is not just a matter of winning them – they have to win them by a big margin.
After Monday, four teams advanced in the race for the semi-finals
West Indies and South Africa now have two points each after Windies’ win. From Group B, England are also leading the race for the semi-finals with equal points. However, West Indies have come out on top with a huge lead in Net Run Rate (+5.350).
South Africa (+3.800) and England (+2.550) are third in terms of net run rate. This huge net run rate of Windies has become a big shock for India.
How Windies made India’s equation difficult:
1. Huge gap in net run rate
West Indies took their net run rate to +5.35 with a 107-run win over Zimbabwe. South Africa is at +3.80. Even if India somehow manage to bring their net run rate to 0.00, it will be difficult to finish in the top two. Because Windies and South Africa are far ahead.
2. complex equation
If India beat Zimbabwe and West Indies and South Africa beat West Indies, then South Africa, India and West Indies could have 4 points each.
In that scenario, India will have to have a better net run rate than at least one of these two teams to make it to the semi-finals. But here is the problem. Currently the net run rate of South Africa and West Indies is much ahead of India. As a result, the equation has now become quite difficult for Team India.
What roads are open in front of India now?
A big loss in the Super-8 phase has complicated India’s equation. Currently India’s net run rate is -3.800 and they are third in the group. On the other hand, West Indies strengthened their position with a huge victory of 107 runs against Zimbabwe. Now let’s look at all the possible equations—
If India win the remaining two matches and reach 4 points, they will have a chance to finish at least second in the group. But here too, winning by a big margin is very important.
If India win just one match, the fate of the semi-finals will depend entirely on net run rate. In this regard, the result of West Indies vs South Africa and South Africa vs Zimbabwe will also play a big role.
If India lose even one more match, their chances of making it to the semi-finals will become very slim.
Net Run Rate is a solid figure
If India chase runs
Bringing India’s net run rate to 0.00 is a very difficult equation to match. Let’s say Zimbabwe score 120 or 150 runs. India need to lift it in just 8.2 overs. Which is practically impossible.
And South Africa’s (+3.800) net run rate needs to be achieved in just 5.2 overs – which is beyond imagination in reality.
If India bat first
If the captain in Chennai the sun If they win the toss and bat, Zimbabwe will need to be all out at least 76 runs short of India’s score to reach 0.00 net run rate.
