Bangladesh has done its job well to reach the Super Four in the Asia Cup. Now the Tigers are looking forward to the Sri Lanka-Afghanistan match. Liton Das’ team, which was on the brink of collapse after losing to the Sri Lankans, won a life-or-death match against Afghanistan. Which keeps Liton-Mustafiz’s hopes of reaching the Super Four alive. In the last match of Group ‘B’, the equation of reaching the Super Four is now final in front of three teams including Bangladesh.
After three matches in the group stage, Bangladesh has 4 points. However, the net run rate is the reason for the Tigers to worry. After somehow winning against Hong Kong, the big loss to the Sri Lankans has had a big impact on this. 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, which is a cause for concern for Bangladesh, is giving the Afghans some relief. However, the road ahead of them is not easy, they have to win against the Sri Lankans to reach the Super Four.
If the Afghans win by a narrow margin, Bangladesh’s Super Four dream will end. That is why Bangladesh will definitely want Hasaranga-Mendis to win in today’s (September 18) match between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Again, if Sri Lanka loses by a large margin, they are also in danger. In this case, Bangladesh and Afghanistan will make it to the Super Four.
Super Four Equation
In the case of Bangladesh— Sri Lanka must win. If they lose, the margin must be at least 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, the three teams will have equal points of 4, but Bangladesh will be eliminated due to net run rate.
FAQ
How many points does Bangladesh have?
Bangladesh has 4 points after three matches but a poor net run rate of -0.270.
What does Bangladesh need to reach the Super Four?
Bangladesh needs Sri Lanka to beat Afghanistan. If Sri Lanka loses, the margin must be huge for Bangladesh to qualify.
What is Sri Lanka’s position in the group?
Sri Lanka is unbeaten with a strong net run rate of +1.546 and is in the best position to advance.
What are Afghanistan’s chances to qualify?
Afghanistan must beat Sri Lanka. If they win, they will qualify for the Super Four and Bangladesh will be eliminated.
