In the first match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 on Sunday, October 16, Sri Lanka, who have played in the qualifiers for the second year in a row, faced a shock 55-run defeat against Namibia.
The 2022 Asia Cup winners were expected to win over Namibia in the tournament’s opener considering their performance but in Geelong, the result was different altogether. Moreover, it was the first time in their history that Namibia managed to secure a win over one of the top 10 cricket nations as well.
While a huge 55-run win, Namibia’s chance of reaching the Super 12 stage for the second successive year is bright. Meanwhile, it certainly made things difficult for Sri Lanka, who now have to win their remaining two matches against the United Arab Emirates on October 18 and Netherlands on October 20 as well, that too by a big margin, to have a chance of reaching the Super 12 as well.
Meanwhile, it can now make things more complex for India in the T20 World Cup as both Sri Lanka and West Indies can end up in India’s group at the Super 12 stage. Currently, India are pooled with Pakistan, South Africa, and Bangladesh in Group 2 of the Super 12 stage as well and only two will join from the qualifiers.
Sri Lanka’s chance of finishing on top take a hit
However, as per the tournament’s format, the winner of Group B of the first round and the runners-up from Group A will end up in India’s group as well. Notably, Sri Lanka is in Group A and after Sunday’s defeat, their chances of finishing at the top have become uncertain. So, if they finish in the second position, they will end up being in India’s group as well, which will ensure some interesting encounters as well.
In Group B, West Indies are placed with Scotland, Ireland, and Zimbabwe, and if they manage to finish at the top of their group, then as per the format, they will also be in Group 2, where all six quality teams – India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and West Indies will be in one group, and then it will be a thrilling tournament as well.
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