Having completed their work properly, Bangladesh is now looking forward to the Sri Lanka-Afghanistan match. The Tigers, who were on the brink of collapse after losing to the Sri Lankans by a huge margin, won a life-or-death match against Afghanistan. This has kept Liton-Mustafiz’s hopes of reaching the Super Four alive. However, a new equation for reaching the Super Four has now appeared before three teams, including Bangladesh.
Bangladesh have 4 points after three matches in the group stage, but their net run rate is the reason for their worries. After somehow winning against Hong Kong, the big loss to the Sri Lankans has had a good impact on that. Currently, Bangladesh, who are second in the ‘B’ group points table, have a net run rate of -0.270. The top-ranked Sri Lankans have not lost a match yet, and they still have a fight against the Afghans. Sri Lanka’s net run rate is +1.546. On the other hand, the Afghans have 2 points after 2 matches and a net run rate of +2.150. Another team in the group, Hong Kong, has already been eliminated.
The net run rate that is a cause for concern for Bangladesh is giving the Afghans some relief. However, the path ahead of them is not easy, they have to win against the Sri Lankans to reach the Super Four. No matter how far the Afghans win, the hopes of Liton’s team will be over. As a result, Bangladesh will definitely want Hasranga-Mendis to win in tomorrow’s (Thursday) Sri Lanka-Afghanistan match. If Sri Lanka loses by a large margin, they are also in danger, then Bangladesh and Afghanistan will advance to the Super Four.
Super Four Equation
In the case of Bangladesh— Sri Lanka must win. If they lose, the margin must be 71 runs or 53 balls remaining, then Bangladesh and Afghans will go to the next round.
In the case of Sri Lanka— There is no problem if they lose by a margin of less than 71 runs (if they bat later) or 53 balls (if they bat first). Then Sri Lanka and Afghanistan will advance.
In the case of Afghanistan— There is no alternative to winning. If they win, Bangladesh will be eliminated.
Incidentally, Bangladesh defeated the Afghans by 8 runs yesterday. Batting first, the Tigers scored 154 runs for 5 wickets, supported by Tanjid Tamim’s 31-ball 52 runs. Chasing the target, Rashid Khan’s team was all out for 146 runs. For Bangladesh, Mustafizur Rahman took the highest 3 wickets and Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain took 2 wickets each along with controlled bowling.
FAQ
How did Bangladesh keep their Super Four hopes alive?
Bangladesh defeated Afghanistan by 8 runs in a must-win group stage match, keeping their chances of reaching the Super Four alive.
What is Bangladesh’s current position in the points table?
Bangladesh are second in Group B with 4 points after three matches, but their negative net run rate is a concern.
Why is the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan match important for Bangladesh?
The result of the Sri Lanka vs Afghanistan clash will decide whether Bangladesh qualify for the Super Four or get eliminated.
What happens if Afghanistan beats Sri Lanka?
If Afghanistan win, they will qualify along with Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh will be eliminated from the tournament.
