Pakistan have their backs against the wall in Group A of the ICC T20 World Cup, with the 2009 champions facing a must-win clash against Namibia in Colombo today to keep their Super Eight hopes alive.

A 61-run thrashing at the hands of India on Sunday has left Pakistan in a precarious position. Title favourites India have already sealed their berth from Group A, while the second qualification spot is now a straight shootout on net run-rate between Pakistan and the USA.

Both Pakistan and the USA have four points but the Americans hold a significant edge. Pakistan’s net run-rate stands at -0.403, while the USA are comfortably placed at 0.788.

The equation for Pakistan is simple. Beat the winless Namibia and qualify. Any slip-up will end their campaign. A defeat would eliminate Pakistan and potentially open a slim window for the Netherlands, who would need a massive win over co-hosts India in Ahmedabad on Wednesday to sneak through.

The spotlight will once again fall on Pakistan’s fragile batting unit, including stalwart Babar Azam and skipper Salman Agha, which crumbled under pressure against India at the same ground.

Babar, in particular, has come under intense scrutiny after managing just five off seven balls in the high-voltage clash. Calls for his exclusion have grown louder amid Pakistan’s struggles at the top of the order.

Their bowling also failed to fire. Pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi endured an off day, claiming just one wicket while conceding over 31 runs in his two overs.

Pakistan were heavily criticised for opting to field first against India and then folding meekly for 114 in 18 overs while chasing a daunting 176-run target. Now, there is no room for error.