Written by Vaibhav Tripathi
South Africa has successfully secured the final automatic qualification spot for the highly-anticipated World Cup, as Ireland’s chances of overtaking them were quashed when their first ODI against Bangladesh was unfortunately abandoned due to unfavorable weather conditions. To move up from 11th place in the points table, Ireland was required to win all three matches in their series against Bangladesh in England.
Nevertheless, even if they manage to clinch the series 2-0, they would still not be able to surpass South Africa’s eighth place in the World Cup Super League standings. Hence, Ireland will now have to participate in the qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe, which is set to be held from June 18 to July 9.
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The 50-over World Cup in India will witness the participation of South Africa, alongside hosts India, defending champions England, Australia, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. South Africa played their last ODI series in the qualification period against the Netherlands, triumphing in both matches to rise to eighth place in the World Cup Super League.
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Their qualification for the tournament in India was dependent on Ireland not winning the ODI series against Bangladesh 3-0, with net run rate also being a significant factor. Bangladesh, who had already qualified, had set a target of 247 runs to win in 50 overs, but the game was eventually called off when Ireland was 65-3 in the 17th over. It was imperative for the innings to last for at least 20 overs to yield a result.