The race to the Asia Cup 2023 Final is underway right now in Sri Lanka. Four teams, namely India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan are in the Super Fours round of the tournament. The final match of the Super Fours round will take place between India and Bangladesh on September 15. Before that, there is a game between Pakistan and Sri Lanka as well.
These two matches will decide which team will play against the Men in Blue in the final match. India have already qualified for the final with wins over Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Men in Blue crushed Pakistan by 228 runs yesterday and followed it up with a close win in a low-scoring thriller against the islanders today.
Bangladesh are fourth in the standings with zero points after two matches. Pakistan or Sri Lanka will likely face India in the final. Here are the final qualification scenarios.
How can Pakistan qualify for Asia Cup 2023 Final?
Pakistan have earned two points from two matches. Their net run rate is in negative because of the loss against India. However, the Men in Green need not worry much about the net run rate now. Their match against Sri Lanka has become a virtual semifinal now. If Pakistan win the match by any margin, the Men in Green will be through to the summit clash.
How can SL qualify for final?
Sri Lanka also have two points from two matches. Their equation is similar to Pakistan. The islanders need to win the match at the R Premadasa Stadium on September 14 to set up a clash against the Indian team on September 17. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka can also qualify if their match against Pakistan is abandoned due to rain.
Sri Lanka’s net run rate is better than Pakistan right now. Thus, if the game between Sri Lanka and Pakistan does not produce a result, India will play Sri Lanka in the final.
