T20 World Cup: Semifinal Scenarios For India, Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh

After the West Indies and England sealed their berths in the T20 World Cup’s semifinals, only two spots are up for grabs.

All four teams in Group 1 of the Super Eights are in contention for the two remaining spots.

Here’s a look at their current situation and what each team needs to reach the last four:

India

India are currently on top of Group 1 with four points from two games and remain in a prime position to reach the semifinals.

Rohit Sharma’s team defeated Afghanistan and Bangladesh in the first two matches in the Super Eights and victory against Australia on Monday would seal their ticket to their second successive semifinal.

A win would also help India avenge their home Cricket World Cup 2023 final loss against Australia.

However, if India lose, Australia could go top of the group or even Afghanistan, should the Afghans beat Bangladesh in the other fixture of Group 1. But either side will need to better India’s massive net run rate of +2.425.

Australia

The Aussies are second in Group 1 with two points from two matches, just above Afghanistan on net run rate (+0.223).

The 2021 champions defeated Bangladesh in the first Super Eights match but suffered a shocking defeat to Afghanistan in the second game, leaving the group wide open.

Mitchell Marsh’s side needs to beat India in the day game in Saint Lucia to stand a chance of reaching the semifinals.

If they lose against India, their fate will depend on the outcome of Afghanistan vs Bangladesh and perhaps the net run rate.

Afghanistan

Afghanistan are third in Group 1 with two points from two matches, with a net run rate of -0.650.

The Afghans lost to heavyweights India in their opening match of the Super Eights but recorded a stunning victory over Australia to spice things up in this group.

Rashid Khan’s team can qualify for the semifinals for the first time if they beat Bangladesh in their final game.

They, however, have a slight advantage. With India facing Australia during the day on Monday, Afghanistan will head into their evening game against Bangladesh knowing exactly what the equation is.

Bangladesh

Bangladesh are bottom of Group 1 with zero points after losing both Super Eights matches.

First, they lost to Australia and then India, but Afghanistan’s win over Australia handed Bangladesh a lifeline.

Najmul Hossain Shanto’s team have a very slim chance of making it to the semifinals, but it is mathematically possible.

Bangladesh must beat Afghanistan by a huge margin to boost their net run rate (currently -2.489) and seek a favour from India, hoping Sharma’s side beat Australia.