In Group A, all three teams are currently tied on two points, but separated by net run rate. Sri Lanka lead the table with four points and a superior net run rate of +1.546. Bangladesh sit second with two wins and four points, though their net run rate is –0.270. Afghanistan, despite also having two points, are ahead of Bangladesh in terms of net run rate with +2.150.
This means if Sri Lanka defeat Afghanistan in the final group match, both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will advance to the Super Four. But if Afghanistan win, the qualification will be decided by net run rate.
Bangladesh’s hopes of reaching the Super Four now rest on the outcome of the final clash between Sri Lanka and Afghanistan, but former Sri Lankan cricketer and commentator Russell Arnold insists his side will only be focused on their own game rather than Bangladesh’s fate.
“Look, Sri Lanka won’t be thinking about Bangladesh. They’ll think about how they should play, what they need to improve, and try to execute that on the field. Hopefully, they’ll play well enough to control their own fate and move to the next stage. If that happens, Bangladesh will benefit too,” Arnold said.
Arnold was on commentary duty during Bangladesh’s dramatic victory over Afghanistan and witnessed the performance up close. He described the win as exactly what Bangladesh needed, crediting them for bold changes and playing with intent.
“It was a very good game. Bangladesh needed that win. They made some brave changes and played to win. They were much better than in their first two matches, so I was really pleased with their performance. The game had its ups and downs, but there were plenty of positives for Bangladesh. They’ve given themselves a chance. Yes, they’ll have to wait and see, but they’re still in the competition,” Arnold added.
