London: New Zealand have confirmed their place in the semi-finals of the 2019 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.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 July 9. They will face either one of Australia or India, with the fixture to be confirmed at the conclusion of the group stage on Saturday. (UNI)