Here's how England can qualify for World Cup 2019 semis
England suffered a shocking loss against Sri Lanka in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2019 on Friday. The hosts faced their second defeat in six games, this term. At the moment, England have eight points in the bag and things could get tricky for them to make the cut for the semis. Here we decode how England can qualify for the knock-outs.
England are on the third spot post loss against Lanka
England's next three games are pretty tough
England have eight points from six games and face a difficult road ahead in the World Cup. They face Australia next on Tuesday. Post that, they would have tough games against India and New Zealand. All these three teams are in the top four at the moment. Interestingly, all these sides are England's biggest rivals as far as the trophy is concerned.
Here're all the possible scenarios through which England can qualify
The safest way for England to qualify and finish in the top two would be to win all the remaining three games. Meanwhile, even two wins should be enough as well. England have a superior net run-rate (NRR) and that could prove to be crucial. If England win just one and lose the others, they would be depending on how other games shape up.
How do things look for India, Australia and New Zealand?
India have the safest route ahead since they play safe games. After today's game against Afghanistan, the Indian cricket team will face West Indies, England, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka. The road for Australia and New Zealand also looks a bit tricky. Both these sides are up against themselves and England. The race for the top four could witness a significant twist.
What if England lose all three matches?
If England lose all three upcoming games, then the likes of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh can have a real crack. Both these teams will be eyeing to give their best shot. Lanka and Bangladesh are separated by a point at the moment.
England likely to qualify but it won't be easy
England's primary target will be to take one game at a time. They are one win away from likely qualification and NRR will be important here. One victory will see them end on fourth place. Given their performance since a while now, one expects England to get through. But they would have to play their best cricket.
