The qualification of the Black Caps was dependent on whether Pakistan – trailing New Zealand by two points in the standings – could pull off a win of monstrous proportions against Bangladesh in their final group match at Lord’s on Friday, with Net Run Rate to then separate the sides.
Pakistan batted first, setting Bangladesh a target of 316. To then book a place in the semi-finals, Pakistan had to bowl Bangladesh out for seven or less to have their Net Run Rate climb over New Zealand’s. Bangladesh passed seven from the 11th ball of their innings, a single from Tamim Iqbal off Mohammad Amir confirming a fourth consecutive semi-final for New Zealand at the Men’s Cricket World Cup.
With their position in the standings fixed at fourth, New Zealand will play in the first semi-final, at Old Trafford on 9 July. They will face either one of Australia or India, with the fixture to be confirmed at the conclusion of the group stage on Saturday.
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