The group stage of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier has concluded, setting the stage for an exciting Super Six stage. Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe have emerged as the frontrunners, placing themselves in a strong position to secure the two qualification spots for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India.
The final round of matches in the group stage served as de facto Super Six matches since the six progressing teams had already been determined. With results against the other Super Six teams to be carried forward, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka have gained an early advantage, both sitting on four points. Netherlands and Scotland follow closely with two points each, while West Indies and Oman find themselves at the bottom with zero points.
In the upcoming Super Six stage, each team will have three more matches to play against the three qualifying teams from the other group. The top two teams at the end of the group stage will advance to the final and secure their spots in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
Sri Lanka, the highest-ranked team in the tournament, has demonstrated their prowess with the outstanding performance of Wanindu Hasaranga, who has taken 18 wickets in his four matches so far. With Hasaranga’s impressive form and their overall strength, Sri Lanka remains confident in their quest to qualify for the World Cup.
Hosts Zimbabwe have been riding a wave of momentum, delivering remarkable cricket performances in front of enthusiastic home crowds. Carrying four points into the Super Six stage, they have positioned themselves as strong contenders. Their crucial clash with Sri Lanka promises to be a defining moment in the tournament.
Meanwhile, the West Indies face an uphill battle to secure a place in the Cricket World Cup. Their heartbreaking Super Over defeat against the Netherlands has dampened their chances. To stay in contention, they must secure victories against Scotland and Oman while hoping for favorable results elsewhere.
Oman, who started the tournament strongly, faces a challenging task to qualify from their current position. They will need to produce surprising victories against Zimbabwe, Netherlands, and West Indies to keep their hopes alive.
The Netherlands, despite being one of the lowest-ranked teams in the tournament, have shown resilience and skill. Their thrilling Super Over triumph against the West Indies has earned them two crucial points, and their powerful batting lineup poses a threat to the other Super Six teams.
Scotland enters the Super Six stage in fine form, equipped with quality spin options that could prove advantageous on turning pitches in the latter stages of the tournament.
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