Cricket World Cup: England semi-final permutations as they look to pip Pakistan

We look at what will happen if England win or lose against New Zealand at Chester-le-Street on Wednesday

England's Joe Root celebrates with team mates Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer. Action Images via Reuters

Cricket World Cup hosts England have their whole nation behind them, but their hopes of success are hanging in the balance.

Victory over India on Sunday kept them in the running for a semi-final spot, and today they face New Zealand at Chester-le-Street in their last group match.

So far, Eoin Morgan's side have won five and lost three, and go into the match in fourth place behind New Zealand in third, India in second and Australia who are top.

What happens if England beat New Zealand?

They will go through to the semi-final, it is as simple as that.

What if they lose?

Well, New Zealand's place in the semis will be confirmed for a start.

As for England, they will then be dependent on how Pakistan get on against Bangladesh at Lord's on Friday.

If Pakistan win, they will move to 11 points - one more than England.

Sri Lanka meanwhile also have a chance of reaching the semi-finals, as they are on 8 points and can draw level with England on 10 if they beat India on Saturday - although that looks unlikely given their topsy-turvy form and India's domination.

Pakistan would then need to lose to Bangladesh.

What if the teams are level on points?

If the teams are level on points it will come down to net run rate.

So, if England lose, Sri Lanka win and Pakistan against Bangladesh is a tie, all three teams will have 10 points.

The team that goes through to the semi-final having finished in fourth will be the one with the highest net run rate.

As it stands, it is England. See the table below.

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