How to reach World Cup semis? The game of Ifs & Buts starts for Pakistan

After a two-wicket defeat at the hands of England, Pakistan's campaign in the Twenty20 World Cup is barely hanging on a thread and they are almost out of the race for the last four spot.

But who knows?

Pakistan may still make it to the semis, but the fate of their campaign lies now on other team’s mercy instead of their own hands.

Here is how Group 2 may play out that can give Pakistan hope.

England

After two successive wins against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, England are the first team to reach the semi-finals of the World T20. The outcome of their match against New Zealand does not matter much to them now, however, from Pakistan’s perspective, they should beat the Kiwis to pave the way for the Green Shirts to make it to the semi-finals.

New Zealand

New Zealand has one point due to an abandoned game against Pakistan and will now face Sri Lanka and then England. They need to beat both Sri Lanka and England to reach the last four. Even one win and another washout can be enough for the Kiwis to reach the last four.

However, only one win and one defeat will leave the door ajar for Pakistan, and the net run rate can come into play then.

It would be ideal for Pakistan if New Zealand lose both their matches.

Sri Lanka

With a huge defeat at the hands of England, Sri Lanka are also on the brink. They are now in a must-win situation against New Zealand and Pakistan if they want to advance to the semi-finals.

If they lose any of the matches, their campaign will end.

For Pakistan, it will be ideal if Sri Lanka defeat New Zealand and lose to the Green Shirts.

Pakistan

After an abandoned game against New Zealand and a loss to England, Pakistan desperately need a slip-up of Black Caps to make it to the semi-finals.

Pakistan need to win against Sri Lanka with a healthy margin in their last match so that they can advance to the semi-finals.

If New Zealand win both their matches, Pakistan will be out of the tournament. If New Zealand have another abandoned game and a win, Pakistan will knock out as well. However, both abandoned games or an abandoned game and a defeat for New Zealand will keep Pakistan's chances alive.

With one win and one defeat for New Zealand, Pakistan and the Kiwis can finish on the same points and then net run rate will come into play to decide the fate of the next semi-finalist.

In case of another washout for Pakistan, Pakistan will be out of the semi final’s race.

However, the biggest hurdle is that Pakistan have to win against Sri Lanka.

Can they overcome the Islanders with their current form, tactics and team combination in addition to a mediocre captain and a below-average coach?

This question mark looms large on the outcome of Group 2.