World Cup 2019: How can England qualify for semis?
England suffered a staggering 64-run defeat at the hands of Australia in match number 32 of the ongoing ICC World Cup 2019. This defeat means that England's World Cup campaign now hangs in the balance. After a great start, the Three Lions have hit a low after suffering two successive defeats. However, they can still qualify for knock-outs. Here is how.
England must win remaining two league games
England are fourth at the moment with eight points in the bag after seven games. They have a NRR of +1.051. Interestingly, the three defeats, suffered by them, have come while chasing. In order to guarantee progression into semis, England need to win the remaining two matches. They face India and New Zealand. Both sides are yet to lose so far in CWC 19.
How external factors can help England if they lose?
If England win one and lose the other, they can still make the cut with 10 points. But a lot will depend on how other teams fare. If they lose both, then external factors will come to play. Sri Lanka need to lose all their remaining matches, alongside Bangladesh. Pakistan need to lose at least two, whereas, West Indies should lose one match.
Pakistan, Bangladesh and Lanka are all in the hunt
The likes of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are in the fray and can qualify at England's expense. The World Cup has entered into a tricky phase and the race for the last four has become intense.
How has the table shaped up?
England will be tested severely by India and NZ
England face India at Edgbaston on June 30 and things could be difficult as the pitch will support spinners and get slower as day progresses. India might get tempted to include Ravindra Jadeja alongside the two wrist spinners. And then at Chester-le-Street, England will play Kiwis. The ground is known to assist swing and seam. Kiwis have a fancied attack that thrives on both.
