New Zealand’s 61-run victory over Sri Lanka has left Pakistan with a narrow and complicated path to the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

In the Super Eight clash in Colombo, New Zealand posted 168 for 7 before restricting Sri Lanka to 107 for 8, sealing a dominant win and significantly boosting their net run rate to +3.05.

Pakistan’s net run rate currently stands at -0.46.

With England already qualified from the group, the remaining semi-final spot hinges on the final round of matches.

New Zealand will face England on Friday, while Pakistan take on Sri Lanka on Saturday.

For Pakistan to stay in contention, England must defeat New Zealand.

Even then, Pakistan would need a comprehensive win over Sri Lanka to overhaul the net run rate deficit.

If New Zealand beat England, Pakistan will be eliminated before playing their final group match.

Sri Lanka, after back-to-back defeats to England and New Zealand, are out of the semi-final race.

The result has further complicated Pakistan’s qualification scenario, leaving their fate dependent on both results and a significant improvement in net run rate.