• Pakistan eyes big score with Fakhar if batting first.
• Slim semi-final chances for Pakistan after New Zealand’s win. Need a huge victory against England.
• New Zealand leads, Pakistan trails. Afghanistan faces tough odds.

In a crucial turn of events in the ICC World Cup 2023, former Pakistani pacer Mohammad Amir has weighed in on Pakistan’s chances against England in the upcoming 44th match at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, emphasizing the importance of winning the toss and opting to bat first. Amir, a key figure in Pakistan’s 2009 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy-winning teams, believes that a monumental score of 400-450 runs is within reach, but it all hinges on the performance of opener Fakhar Zaman.

Amir expressed optimism, saying, “This 400-450 runs scenario is a possibility. It is possible in cricket. If we score 400 and get them out for 112 runs. If Fakhar bats [like he did against New Zealand] then [it is possible]. But [all of this] is only possible if we bat first.”

However, Pakistan’s road to the semi-finals has become even steeper following New Zealand’s recent victory over Sri Lanka. The Black Caps’ triumph has left Pakistan in a precarious position, requiring a massive win over England to secure a spot in the semi-finals.

If Pakistan opts to bat first, they face the daunting task of beating England by 287 runs. On the other hand, if they bowl first, the challenge is to chase down the target with a staggering 284 balls to spare, equivalent to just 2.4 overs.

As the World Cup group stage reaches its climax, India, South Africa, and Australia have already secured their places in the semi-finals. New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Pakistan are now vying for the remaining spot, with the Black Caps currently holding a dominant position, followed closely by Pakistan. Afghanistan’s chances appear to be the weakest due to their negative net run rate (NRR).

Remaining World Cup Matches Schedule:

• November 10: South Africa vs Afghanistan @ Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
• November 11: Australia vs Bangladesh @ Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune
• November 11: England vs Pakistan @ Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• November 12: India vs Netherlands @ M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
• November 15: Semi-final 1 — First place vs fourth place @ Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
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• November 16: Semi-final 2 — Second place vs third place @ Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• November 19: Final — Winner of Semi-final 1 vs winner of Semi-final 2 @ Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

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