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Higher mathematics took over in both World Cup groups yesterday as net run rate came into play. The World Cup rules state that where two teams finish level the side who won the match between them will finish in a higher position.

In Group A the calculation was complicated by the fact that England finished level on points with both India and Zimbabwe. They beat Zimbabwe and lost to India, while Zimbabwe defeated India. Because these results cancelled each other out, net run rate was the deciding factor.

Run rate will also come into play today in Group B if New Zealand beat Scotland. They, Australia and the West Indies would all have six points.

Net run rate is calculated by subtracting the rate at which runs are conceded during the group matches from the rate at which runs are scored.

For New Zealand to progress ahead of West Indies they face the following targets in their game with Scotland:

If New Zealand bat first and score 200, they must win by 121; at 250 they must win by 118; at 300 by 114.

If Scotland bat first and score 100, New Zealand must reach their target in 21 overs; if Scotland score 150, New Zealand must win by the 23rd; if Scotland score 200, New Zealand must win by the 25th.