It was more about who made it to the semis and who did not. Pakistani fans were really hoping for a New Zealand victory as that would elevate Pakistan over England to the semi-finals. But England hit form in a game trouncing India, and with this win clinched their spot in the semis, for the first time since 1992.
New Zealand, splendid in the first part of the World Cup, have now lost 3 games in a trot. The big 4 are all in now except New Zealand, who theoretically could fail if Pakistan win against Bangladesh and how… that comes a bit later.
New Zealand-England conspired to keep Pakistan out?
Every match is now loaded with shadows of conspiracy. Pakistani fans were hoping for an English win, but though New Zealand bowlers put the lid on scoring in the last 15 overs, England reached 305 for 8 with Bairstow going on to become Man of the Match with 106 runs. Roy got 60 but others did not impress. The 305 score was not a huge total for a top 4 team but New Zealand just never ran. By 123, the fifth wicket had fallen and New Zealand certainly seemed uninterested in winning.
By then, Pakistani fans resigned to England’s win were focusing on New Zealand’s run rate.
“What sort of run rate would be needed to overtake New Zealand?” they asked. It was assumed that Pakistan would beat Bangladesh in the last game, but by how big a margin? Cricinfo’s Andrew Miller hilariously responded as New Zealand stood at 139/6.
“Apparently for Pakistan to pull ahead of New Zealand on Net Run Rate, if they bowl first against Bangladesh, New Zealand need to be bowled out for 142 here, and Pakistan need to bowl Bangladesh out for 0 and win with five wides in the first ball. "
But New Zealand were all out at 186, their third loss in a trot. And the situation for Pakistani chance was this: “Pakistan will need to beat Bangladesh by 316 runs at Lord's on Friday to oust New Zealand. That is, if they score 400, they need to keep Bangladesh to 84 or less. The exact margin will change depending on scores." Well theoretically it is possible, right?
It was a dull and boring cricket match that was made interesting only by the impact it would have on other teams. An England–India contest will be exciting. Meanwhile, for the first time since 1992, England are in the semis.
Indian company Dabur’s ugly anti-Bangladesh ad
Dabur’s advertisement which trashed Bangladeshi and Bengalis is obnoxious. Indian fans are so sensitive about Bangladeshi fans but the ugly ad by a major multinational for national promotion was allowed until Indian Bengalis protested massively. It seems that India at this point is competing not only to win the Cricket World Cup but also another trophy for poor taste by making adverts trashing another people and culture.