PAK vs BAN: Pakistan prevails in must-win clash, Bangladesh knocked out of semi-final race

Pakistan displayed their top form in Kolkata, keeping their hopes alive by securing a convincing 7-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Match 31 of the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2023. Unfortunately for Bangladesh, this loss marked the end of their semi-final aspirations.

The opening pair of Fakhar Zaman and Abdullah Shafique provided a strong foundation for Pakistan in the chase of 205 runs, amassing an impressive 128-run partnership. Mehidy Hasan Miraj managed to break this crucial partnership by dismissing Shafique LBW for a well-played 68 (69). 

Mehidy Hasan Miraj continued to make an impact by removing Babar Azam for 9 (16) and Fakhar Zaman for 81 (74) in the following over. Despite these quick wickets, Pakistan comfortably secured the win, with Mohammad Rizwan contributing 26 and Iftikhar Ahmed adding 17 valuable runs to finish the game in 32.3 overs.

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Earlier in the match, Pakistan's pace bowlers put up a clinical performance, leading to Bangladesh's innings folding at 204 in 45.1 overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Mohammad Wasim Jr each took three wickets, while Haris Rauf claimed two. Spinners Iftikhar Ahmed and Usama Mir chipped in with a wicket each. It was an eventful first over for Shaheen Afridi, who reached a significant milestone by capturing his 100th ODI wicket.

Can Pakistan still make it to the semi-finals?

Pakistan endured a challenging journey marked by four consecutive losses after notable victories against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka. Even with their latest victory over Bangladesh, their chances of reaching the top four remain slim.

To have a shot at qualification, Pakistan must win all their remaining matches and accumulate a total of 10 points. However, this may still not guarantee a top-four position. 

Pakistan's fate largely depends on the performance of other teams in upcoming matches. Australia needs to drop to the fifth position by losing their next three matches against Afghanistan, England, and Bangladesh. Simultaneously, Sri Lanka must face two losses out of their three upcoming matches against India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

In this scenario, Australia would end with eight points, and Sri Lanka would have just six. They also need to rely on New Zealand's result as if they lose their next two matches, they too will remain at 10 points. While India has virtually secured their spot in the semi-finals, Pakistan's prospects for qualification are still hanging in the balance.