The qualification scenario in Group 1 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 is heating up, with Australia leading the pack and likely to be the first team to make it to the semi-finals. However, the remaining teams are still in contention and fighting for a spot in the final four.

Australia: Firm Favorites to Win the Group

Australia’s dominant performance in the opening week of the tournament has put them in a strong position to qualify for the semi-finals. With three wins in three games, including a huge victory over New Zealand and a 10-wicket win over Sri Lanka, they are firm favorites to top the group and qualify for the knockout stage.

Can Sri Lanka Make History?

Sri Lanka’s impressive start to the tournament has given them a chance of reaching the semi-finals for the first time in the tournament’s history. However, their heavy loss to Australia has left them with a poor net run rate, which could be crucial in determining their fate. They will likely need to beat New Zealand in their remaining game to have a shot at finishing in the top two.

South Africa: The Big Challengers

South Africa’s loss to Sri Lanka in their opening game was a setback, but they bounced back with a convincing win over New Zealand. Currently two points behind Sri Lanka, they will need to win at least one of their remaining matches to have a chance of qualifying. Their games against Australia and Bangladesh will be crucial in determining their fate.

New Zealand: Slim Chance of Qualifying

New Zealand’s heavy defeats to Australia and South Africa put them in a difficult position, but their big win over Bangladesh has given them a slim chance of qualifying. They will need a massive margin of victory over Sri Lanka and other results to go their way if they are to make it to the semi-finals.

Remaining Fixtures:

South Africa v Australia – Saturday, 18 February

This is a crucial game for both teams, with South Africa needing a win to stay in contention for a top-two finish, while Australia can guarantee their place in the semi-finals with a victory.

New Zealand v Sri Lanka – Sunday, 19 February

New Zealand must win by a big margin to keep their qualification hopes alive, while Sri Lanka will look to secure their spot in the top two with another upset win.

South Africa v Bangladesh – Tuesday 21 February

This game could be the decider for the top two spots in Group 1, with both teams likely to be fighting for a spot in the semi-finals. The match is expected to draw a big crowd at Newlands and will be the final fixture of the group stage.

Also, see:

ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023: Group 2 Qualification Scenario