New Zealand stare helplessly at Pakistan vs Sri Lanka after losing to England
India Today
T20 World Cup, ENG vs NZ: New Zealand no longer have their fate in their own hands, and the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka clash on Saturday in Pallekele will determine the second semi-finalist from Group 2.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said the Black Caps will be keeping a close eye on the clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Friday, February 27, in Pallekele.
New Zealand's T20 World Cup semi-final hopes suffered a significant setback after their four-wicket defeat to England at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Despite the loss, the Kiwis remain second in the points table with three points and a net run rate of +1.390. However, their qualification is now under threat. If Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka by 65 runs or more, or chase down the target within 13 overs, they will advance to the semifinals, eliminating Santner's side.
Santner acknowledged that his team will be following the Super 8 contest closely, hoping Pakistan fall short against Sri Lanka.
"Yeah, we'll probably be watching the game tomorrow. So, yeah, thank you," Santner said after the match.
Santner also reserved praise for Rehan Ahmed, who produced a crucial 19-run cameo off just seven balls, striking one four and two sixes to help England chase down 160 with three balls to spare. He also featured in an unbeaten 44-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Will Jacks, who contributed 32 off 18 deliveries.
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