Rain scuppered any hope of a result in Colombo as New Zealand’s clash with Pakistan was abandoned – a result that guarantees South Africa’s place in the semi-finals.
With eight points to their name, South Africa can now not be caught by the White Ferns, who would still trail them on number of wins, even if they do win their final two group stage matches.
As a result, the Protreas join Australia in being assured a top four finish, although there is plenty yet to be decided in terms of seedings.
With this washout, New Zealand’s next match against India is shaping up to be a winner-takes-all clash in Navi Mumbai.
They chose to bowl in this one after winning the toss, with Lea Tahuhu breaking an opening partnership of 30 when she trapped Omaima Sohail leg before for three.
Muneeba Ali then departed to a brilliant Suzie Bates catch for 22 before Tahuhu (2/20) got her second as she removed Sidra Amin.
A first rain delay followed that dismissal, and after the resumption, Eden Carson and Amelia Kerr grabbed a wicket apiece to leave Pakistan in big trouble on 92 for five from 25 overs.
However, the rain returned and this time, the players did not come back out, with the game eventually abandoned and the points shared.
New Zealand skipper Sophie Devine said: “We had a little bit of hope seeing the South Africa game the other day and that they were off the field for five hours and came back.
“We just needed the rain to hold off, but it didn’t happen today. But the situation is very clear, we have to win both games, starting with India in Mumbai.
“We head back to India tomorrow and look forward to the challenges.”
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana added: “I think we got a good start but we lost a few wickets. But we had a good chance if we could have reached 180. We had a good belief in our bowling side.
“We will try to win the next two matches and try to end our tournament on a high note.”
New Zealand v Pakistan – R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Pakistan 92/5 from 25 overs (Aliya Riaz 28 not out, Muneeba Ali 22; Lea Tahuhu 2/20, Eden Carson 1/7)
Result: Match abandoned
Twister Hero
When it was first mentioned in 1624, the cricket bat was not a bat but merely a stick, similar to the one used in hockey. In the 1770s after changes in the game’s laws, a swell was designed at the bottom. It was, however, very heavy. The oldest preserved cricket bat was made in 1729 and is kept in Oval’s Sandham Room in London.
Kamikaze Granny
The 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan marked the first time the tournament was held in Asia, reflecting the sport’s growing global appeal. The competition featured 20 teams, with South Africa emerging as the champions after defeating England in the final. The next Rugby World Cup is scheduled for 2023 in France.