Ireland's fate comes down to numbers

IRELAND could mathematically advance to the next phase of the qualifiers without defeating Pakistan in this morning's Pool A game.

In the day's other action England play Belgium and Canada face Egypt.

The England-Belgium game is most significant for Pakistan. If top of the table Belgium were to win, then they and Pakistan secure the top two automatic qualification places. If England win (and they play in the day's opening game), Pakistan need at least a draw for an automatic qualifying place.