As Babar faces another humiliating defeat, here's how Pakistan can still qualify for World Cup semis

In a cricket match that will be remembered for years to come, Pakistan and South Africa clashed in a high-stakes 2023 World Cup showdown. The nail-biting contest, witnessed by more than 25,000 spectators, became an unforgettable battle of determination and skill. 

For Pakistan, this match was a must-win situation, as they desperately needed two points to stay alive in the race for the semi-finals. South Africa, on the other hand, sought redemption after their shocking loss to the Netherlands.

In the end, it was South Africa that emerged victorious in a heart-stopping one-wicket triumph, thanks to the composed performance of Keshav Maharaj. At several points during the match, it seemed like South Africa might snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, but they held their nerve and secured a vital win. 

ALSO READ: Tabraiz Shamsi does 'namaste' celebration after dismissing Afridi

The pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and the young Mohammad Wasim Jr. led Pakistan's bowling attack with ferocity, rattling South Africa's lower order. However, Pakistan's batting effort earlier in the game had left them with a subpar total of 270 on a Chepauk pitch that favoured the batters.

The moment that would haunt Pakistan came when captain Babar Azam was left frustrated with Mohammad Nawaz's loose delivery down the leg side. Keshav Maharaj capitalised on the opportunity and released the pressure that had been building on South Africa. Aiden Markram's departure for 91 earlier had provided a glimmer of hope for Pakistan, but it ultimately ended in heartbreak for the team and its captain.

Pakistan's World Cup chances

With this loss, Pakistan's chances of making it to the World Cup 2023 semi-finals have become even slimmer. While they are not entirely out of contention, they must now rely on other results to sneak through to the top four. South Africa's victory catapulted them to the top of the World Cup 2023 points table with 10 points from 6 matches. 

ALSO READ: 'Bad umpires, bad rules': Harbhajan Singh lashes out at ICC over umpiring decisions during SA vs PAK

India, with a game in hand, are not far behind, while New Zealand and Australia hold the third and fourth spots with 8 and 6 points, respectively. Pakistan's hopes now hinge on winning their remaining three matches and boosting their net run rate. They will also require favourable outcomes in other matches, particularly from Australia and New Zealand, who must lose a significant number of their upcoming games for Pakistan to have a shot at the semi-finals.

Australia lose three of their next four matches. For things to fall in Pakistan's favour, Australia need to beat New Zealamd and then lose their remaining three matches.

In addition to this, Pakistan could qualify if New Zealand loses all their remaining matches and if Sri Lanka and Afghanistan drop crucial games. The upcoming clash between Pakistan and New Zealand on November 4 presents an opportunity for Pakistan to derail New Zealand's progress.

New Zealand lose their remaining matches, and Sri Lanka and Afghanistan lose at least two of their four matches

While the road to the semi-finals remains challenging for Pakistan, cricket fans witnessed a thrilling encounter in Chennai that showcased the true essence of the sport – a game where hope and determination never cease to amaze. Pakistan will be eager to overcome their disappointment and continue their journey in the World Cup 2023 with renewed vigor.