• Home
  • Who Said What
  • If We Score 400 450 Mohammad Amir Believes Pakistan Can Qualify For Semis

'If We Score 400-450…', Mohammad Amir Believes Pakistan Can Qualify for Semis

image-lothvpp4Pakistan are almost out of 2023 WC [AP]

Former Pakistani pacer Mohammad Amir suggests that Pakistan's chances of reaching the semi-finals hinge on posting a score of 400 or more and limiting England to under 112 in their upcoming match at Kolkata's Eden Gardens on November 11.

The Men in Green have experienced a rollercoaster tournament, winning their initial two matches but then enduring four consecutive losses. A crucial victory over New Zealand in Bengaluru kept their semi-final hopes alive. However, New Zealand's triumph over Sri Lanka has made Pakistan's qualification equation extremely challenging.

The victory by the Black Caps has placed Pakistan in a precarious position, necessitating an emphatic win against England in their final league match to secure a semi-final berth. Should Pakistan choose to bat first, they confront the formidable challenge of defeating England by 287 runs. Conversely, if they bowl first, the task becomes chasing the target with an astounding 284 balls to spare, equivalent to just 2.4 overs.

The ex-Pakistani cricketer analyzes Babar Azam's team prospects against England in the 44th match of the ongoing 2023 World Cup, stressing the significance of winning the toss and opting to bat first. 

As a key figure in Pakistan's 2009 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy-winning teams, Amir sees the potential for a monumental score of 400-450 runs, contingent on opener Fakhar Zaman's performance.

Amir expressed, 

"This 400-450 runs scenario is a possibility. It is possible in cricket. If we score 400 and get them out for 112 runs. If Fakhar bats [like he did against New Zealand] then [it is possible]. But [all of this] is only possible if we bat first," during an interview on the show goes by the name of Haarna Mana Hay."

Earlier in the day, Pakistan's captain Babar Azam echoed the team's commitment to doing whatever it takes to reach the semi-finals. However, India, South Africa, and Australia have already secured semi-final berths. 

If Pakistan loses, New Zealand qualifies; even if Pakistan wins, but not by the required margin, New Zealand will still qualify. The forthcoming match may mark the end of Pakistan's World Cup journey.