Scenarios for Australia and South Africa’s Victory

Should Australia and South Africa secure victories, both teams will qualify for the next round with five points each. The group’s top position will hinge on win margins, with South Africa likely to claim first place due to their significant triumph over Afghanistan. If we assume South Africa wins by just one run, having scored 300 runs, Australia would need to achieve a victory by 87 runs with the same first-innings total to surpass South Africa’s net run rate (NRR).

Outcomes if Australia and England Prevail

In this scenario, Australia would lead the group with five points, leaving South Africa in second place with three points.

What Happens if Afghanistan and South Africa Win

If both South Africa and Afghanistan emerge victorious, South Africa would secure the top spot with five points, while Afghanistan would finish second with four points, placing Australia in third.

Consequences of Afghanistan and England Winning

In this case, Afghanistan would rise to first place with four points. The second position would go to either Australia or South Africa, both of which would end up with three points. Given South Africa’s current advantage in NRR, Australia would need South Africa to experience a severe loss against England to improve their standing. For instance, if Australia loses by just one run after Afghanistan sets a target of 300, South Africa would have to lose by 87 runs when chasing that same target for their NRR to fall below that of Australia.

Impact of Rain on Afghanistan vs. Australia Match

There’s a chance of rain affecting the match in Lahore on Friday. If the game ends in a no-result and points are shared, Australia would rise to four points, ensuring their qualification.

If South Africa triumphs over England, they would lead the group with five points. However, if England wins, both South Africa and Afghanistan would finish with three points each, putting NRR into play. With Afghanistan currently at an NRR of -0.99, their chances of progressing become slim; they would need South Africa to lose by a staggering 207 runs while chasing a target of 301 to qualify for the next stage.