ODI World Cup Semi-final Qualification Scenario: How can Afghanistan trump to reach the semis?

Afghanistan have defied all the odds in this World Cup. The Asian side is no longer considered a minnow and has emerged as a cricketing powerhouse in the World Cup. Afghanistan further strengthened their chance of making it to the ODI World Cup semifinal with a seven-wicket win over the Netherlands. 

3 things you need to know

• Afghanistan defeated the Netherlands by seven wickets
• They have now reached eight points in the table
• Afghanistan will next face Australia on Tuesday

Also Read: 'I was upset, angry and disappointed': David Willey blasts ECB after retirement from int'l cricket

Afghanistan have been a better team in this ODI World Cup

Their strong show in the ODI World Cup is not just a coincidence as they have backed up their talents with the resources at their disposal. Bowling has always been their strong point and they have perfected their batting in this tournament and the result is pretty much evident. Except for their wins over the Netherlands. all their other victories have come against strong teams. They derailed England's World Cup campaign with a thumping win while they also secured successive wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

They have now reached eight points and are level on points with five time World Cup winners Australia.

Also Read: 'I've seen a better pace attack': Michael Atherton names calls India 'best team by a country mile'

How Afghanistan can qualify for the ODI World Cup semifinal

For the Afghans, it would be ideal for them to win their remaining two matches which would help them reaching to the last four. They have played a match more than Australia but have participated in the same number games as of New Zealand. Given the Kiwis win their next two games, they would also need to win their remaining two games and would also need to boast of a better run rate than Kane Williamson's team. Should Pakistan get the better of New Zealand they will then also reach eight points alongside the Afghanis and Kiwis.

Net run rate will come into play and the team with the better NRR will find themselves in the last four. Afghanistan could seal their fate with their own hands if they manage to get the better of the Aussies when the two teams come face to face on October 7, Tuesday. In that case, Australia will have to lose their other two games to make things more interesting.