Zimbabwe vs Ireland (PTI) The upcoming T20 World Cup Group B match between Zimbabwe and Ireland is much more than just another league match – it could decide Australia’s fate and shape the Super 8 line-up.On Monday, Sri Lanka stormed into the Super 8s with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Australia. Pathum Nissanka’s breathtaking unbeaten 100 from 52 balls fueled the chase of 182 as the Sri Lankan spinners derailed Australia after a flying 104-run opening stand between Mitchell Marsh (54) and Travis Head (56). The result left Australia teetering on the brink.Sri Lanka have already sealed qualification with three wins in three matches. Zimbabwe are second with two wins from two matches and a healthy net run rate (NRR) of +1.984. Australia, now third with one win in three matches and an NRR of +0.414, are in serious danger. Ireland, ranked fourth with one win in three games (NRR +0.150), are still mathematically alive. Oman is liquidated.The equation is simple but dramatic.If Zimbabwe beat Ireland, they will qualify for the Super 8s — and Australia will be knocked out of the tournament. However, if Ireland win, the group will open up dramatically. Net run rate will then come into play, with Australia needing a strong win over Oman and hoping NRR will swing in their favour.Zimbabwe had shown their pedigree earlier in the tournament by defeating Australia. But Ireland, fighting for survival, will see this as a golden opportunity.The Zimbabwe-Ireland clash is essentially a virtual knockout – not just for themselves but for Australia as well.
Today’s T20 World Cup Matches – Tuesday 17th February
Match Teams Time (IST) VenueMatch 1 New Zealand vs Canada 11:00 AM AMMA Chidambaram Stadium, ChennaiMatch 2 Zimbabwe vs Ireland 3:00 Mpallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri LankaMatch 3 Scotland vs Nepal 7:00 PMWankhede Stadium, MumWankhede Stadium
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