New Zealand will face Afghanistan for a place in the semi finals of the T20 World Cup, with India ready to pounce if the Kiwis are beaten.
In a wonderful turn of events this match will determine the last semi finalist with three teams still in contention.
New Zealand lost the opening game against Pakistan, but then beat India in the next match. They have quietly gone about their jobs beating Namibia and Scotland and now eye another win over Afghanistan to ensure a semi final spot.
Afghanistan have only themselves to blame for, having not followed up massive wins over Namibia and Scotland with a strong case for semi finals. They lost in a tight match against Pakistan but then fell flat against India and conceding 210 runs which in turn damaged their net run rate.
India now have the edge if things come down to net run rate having thrashed Afghanistan and then smashed Scotland. They still have Namibia to play in their last game and will know exactly what to do if New Zealand slip up.
Afghanistan need to beat New Zealand by a convincing margin to stand a chance of semi final qualification, with India having a better net run rate among the 3 sides.
For New Zealand the equation is straightforward beat Afghanistan and the net run rate is out of equation, a World Cup final rematch is waiting against England.
Given the nature of T20 cricket this is easier said than done, Afghanistan carry a massive threat and will be keen to take a big scalp in this event, India is also watching with hope and expectation of a upset that will play into their hands.
