T20 World Cup 2024 Super 8: Group 2 semi-final qualification scenarios

NEW DELHI: As the T20 World Cup 2024 Super Eight stage concludes, Group 2 is tightly contested with England, West Indies, and South Africa vying for two semi-final spots. The USA, while still in contention, faces a tough task to stay in the race. The upcoming matches between England vs USA and West Indies vs South Africa will be crucial in determining the semi-finalists.
If England and West Indies Win:
If England and West Indies win, all three teams (England, West Indies, and South Africa) will be tied on four points each. The West Indies are in a strong position due to their superior net run rate (NRR) and recent form against the USA. A win over South Africa will see them through to the semi-finals. England's qualification, however, depends on NRR. They need to win by a margin that ensures they have a superior NRR to South Africa's. For example, if they win by 10 runs, they will advance even if South Africa loses in a Super Over. If the winning margin is less than 10 runs, South Africa will go through on NRR.

If USA and South Africa Win:
If USA and South Africa win, South Africa will top the table with six points, leaving England, West Indies, and USA stranded at two points each. In this scenario, England's chances hinge on minimizing their losing margin. If they lose in a Super Over after chasing 160, West Indies will need to lose by at least 43 runs to fall below England on NRR. A larger margin of defeat for England would give West Indies more room to maneuver, likely resulting in South Africa and West Indies claiming the semi-final berths. The USA, burdened by a poor NRR, require a Herculean effort: they must defeat England by at least 56 runs and hope West Indies succumb by 91 runs or more to keep their faint hopes alive.
If USA and West Indies Win:
If USA and West Indies win, South Africa and West Indies will advance with four points each, effectively ending the semi-final ambitions of England and USA. In this straightforward scenario, a victory for USA and West Indies would eliminate both England and USA from the semi-final race.
If England and South Africa Win:
If England and South Africa win, South Africa will top the group with six points, and England will secure the second semi-final spot with four points, eliminating the West Indies and USA. This straightforward outcome sees South Africa and England advancing without the need for NRR calculations.
The group is finely poised, and each match will have significant implications on the semi-final lineup.