What a day!! Just minutes after Bangladesh upset India, Ireland dumped Pakistan out of the World cup with their three wicket victory against Pakistan. After bowling them out for 132, NJ O'Brien batted beautifully to take IReland close to glory. But when he threw his wicket away, there was a minor flutter before his brother steadied the ship and Johnston sealed the match with a SIX, reaching the original target of 133 (even though the D/L target was only 128). Just a perfect finish for the Irish fans on St Patrick's day and I am sure the bars are going to be full in celebration.
The second straight loss means Pakistan is definitely out of the tournament and Ireland has a very good chance of progressing. Zimbabwe could win one of their two remaining games against WI or Pakistan, which would bring them level with Ireland. West Indies on the other hand needs to win one of its remaining two games to assure themselves of a safe passage to the super eights.
And what are my thoughts about the possibility of three unexpected teams being in the elite eight? Well, its mixed. I would be extremely thrilled if these teams go on to play at the same level in the remaining matches. But my sense is that it is probably a one-off performance (which has more to do with the favorite team throwing it away like Pakistan did today) and they will get walloped in all the 6 games in the next round making it a poor World cup for the fans. That said, I think Bangladesh really have the team to cause a few more upsets though if they proceed. They have a good team, there were in West Indies early and they are definitely well prepared under Dave Whatmore.
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