NEW DELHI: Pakistan's faint hopes of reaching the World Cup semifinals were dashed after England posted an imposing total of 337/9 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday.
In order to secure a spot in the last four, Pakistan would have needed to chase down the target in 6.4 overs, which is mathematically impossible. Even if they hit 40 sixes off 40 deliveries, that can only get them to 240. However they can finish inside the top-five by scoring at least 188.
New Zealand now officially became the fourth team to seal the last semifinal spot.
Pakistan, the 1992 champions, would have had a chance if they had won the toss and chosen to bat. This decision would have provided them with an opportunity to set a substantial total on the board, aiming to secure a victory by a margin of at least 287 runs.
England's formidable batting lineup showcased their prowess in the final match, with standout performances from Ben Stokes, Joe Root, and Jonny Bairstow propelling the 2019 champions to a massive total against a struggling Pakistan attack.
Stokes, who sat out the first three matches due to a hip injury, stole the spotlight with a commanding 76-ball innings, amassing 84 runs. Contributions from Jonny Bairstow (59 off 61 balls) and Joe Root (60 off 72 balls) further strengthened England's total.
The table topper India will square off against fourth-placed New Zealand on November 15 at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. While South Africa and Australia will be up against each other in the second semifinal on Nov 16 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
With a eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their last league match, Australia remained in third spot behind South Africa on net run rate (NRR).
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