The Super 12s groups are beginning to plot a path to the semi-finals but there is only space for four teams.
Those sides that have already tasted defeat must now feel that they are chasing the leaders, but nothing is settled just yet.
West Indies vs Bangladesh | T20 World Cup | Friday 29 October 2022 | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah | 12:00
Having already lost twice both of these teams find themselves with their backs to the wall.
Neither Bangladesh nor the West Indies have looked like serious title contenders but one side can keep their semi-final hopes alive while the losers will almost certainly fail to reach the knockouts.
Jason Holder has joined the West Indies group after Obed McCoy was forced to withdraw with injury.
A big positive for Bangladesh in the tournament so far has been the return to form of Shakib-al-Hasan.
Verdict: West Indies
Pakistan vs Afghanistan | T20 World Cup | Friday 29 October 2022 | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai | 16:00
Pakistan are already on the brink of reaching the last four and can take a giant leap toward qualification with a victory over Afghanistan.
Afghanistan were on their game against Scotland but are likely to find stiffer opposition in Pakistan who have already seen off India and New Zealand to sit pretty in their group.
The Afghans are no longer dependant entirely on Rashid Khan but he is their lynchpin with the ball in hand.
Pakistan have bowled very well in the tournament so far led by fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
South Africa vs Sri Lanka | T20 World Cup | Saturday 30 October 2021 | Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah | 12:00
With a win apiece, this game is of vital import to both South Africa and Sri Lanka.
South Africa have attracted unwanted controversy but still beat the West Indies last time out to get their campaign off the ground.
Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh first up, but were confortably topped by Australia in midweek.
The Proteas will need to have a plan to deal with in-form batter Charith Asalanka while Sri Lanka will know that Aiden Markram holds the Proteas batting together at the moment.
Verdict: Sri Lanka
Australia vs England | T20 World Cup | Saturday 30 October 2021 | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai | 16:00
This top of the table clash has the added spice of being between cricket’s oldest rivals Australia and England.
The winners will almost certainly go on to reach the semi-finals while the defeated team will be thrown into a tense dogfight for the remaining place.
David Warner came good for Australia last time out which will give the team as a whole a boost.
England have built their success so far off of some brilliant bowling but will need to remain sharp in all areas to beat Australia.
Afghanistan vs Namibia | T20 World Cup | Sunday 31 October 2021 | Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi | 12:00
Afghanistan will view Namibia as a guaranteed two points but they should not be underestimated.
The experience of David Wiese has made Namibia a dangerous side and they already have a win in the Super 12s phase.
Afghanistan will likely hope for a high-scoring encounter which would take the game outside of Namibia’s comfort zone.
Namibia have played quite circumspect cricket to date and it might be time for them to try to break out of the shell.
Verdict: Afghanistan
India vs New Zealand | T20 World Cup | Sunday 31 October 2021 | Dubai International Stadium, Dubai | 16:00
Having both lost to Pakistan in their opening games, India and New Zealand will be out to claim their first points and live up to high expectations.
India need to gain some momentum after a morale-sapping defeat to Pakistan and will look to leader Virat Kohli to inspire them.
New Zealand need Devon Conway firing on all cylinders to give them a chance against mighty India.
Both teams will be targeting allround improvement after disappointing openings, but the Black Caps bowlers will have some confidence having made life difficult for Pakistan.
Verdict: India
