It has not been an ideal Women’s World Cup 2022 for Mithali Raj-led India so far. India registered big wins against arch-rivals Pakistan and West Indies but they were beaten comprehensively by England and New Zealand whereas Australia won it in the last over.
Despite three losses from five games, India’s hopes of reaching the semi-final are very much alive, thanks to the result of other games including Pakistan’s first win in the tournament after 13 years. With two more games to go, here’s how the runners-up of previous season can make it into the last four.
First scenario
The first scenario is pretty straightforward. India beat Bangladesh and South Africa and book their berth in the semi-final. If India register these two wins, the net run rate (NRR) will not matter. The results of West Indies, England and New Zealand games will not matter either in this case. If England and West Indies win their remaining matches along with India, the finalists of last edition will progress to the next stage as the West Indies have an inferior NRR.
Second scenario
If India beat Bangladesh in their next game on March 22 and lose their last game of the league stage against South Africa, they can still qualify for the last four. India need to ensure is that they don’t lose the South Africa clash by a big margin like they did against England and New Zealand. Since it is the last league clash of the tournament, India will know about their target to qualify.
India have an NRR of +0.456. A big win against Bangladesh will only improve their NRR. If India lose to South Africa, it will impact their NRR but the margin has to be small.
Tough clash
While India are favourites going into the clash against Bangladesh on March 22, they will face a tough challenge against South Africa. The Sune Luus-led side has been unbeaten in the tournament so far. India will need to cover all their bases for what could turn out to be a virtual quarter-final.
