In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan's chances of reaching the semifinals of the ICC World Cup 2023 have received a significant boost after New Zealand's loss to South Africa. The points table has seen a shakeup, with South Africa and India leading the pack, while Australia, New Zealand, and Pakistan closely follow suit.

According to the current standings, South Africa and India are at the top with 12 points each. Australia holds the third spot with 8 points, followed by New Zealand in fourth place with the same number of points but a slightly inferior net run rate. Pakistan sits just below them, with 6 points from 7 games and a slightly negative net run rate. Afghanistan and Sri Lanka are also within striking distance, with 6 and 4 points respectively.

Pakistan's next two matches against New Zealand and England now hold immense importance for their World Cup campaign. If they can secure victories in these crucial fixtures and receive favorable results from other matches, the team may have an outside chance of making it to the semifinals. However, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka are also in contention and must not be underestimated.

Meanwhile, South Africa's Quinton de Kock has been in sensational form throughout the tournament. The opener achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first South African player to cross the 500-run mark in a single World Cup edition. De Kock's fourth century in the tournament also saw him equal Kumar Sangakkara's record from the 2015 ODI World Cup.

With his sublime century against New Zealand, de Kock now shares the record for most centuries in a single World Cup edition with Kumar Sangakkara. Indian captain Rohit Sharma still holds the top spot, having smashed five centuries in a single World Cup.

In addition, de Kock has also matched the achievements of Adam Gilchrist and Kumar Sangakkara for having the most 50+ scores by a wicket-keeper in a World Cup edition. With a total of 22 sixes, de Kock now holds the record for the most number of sixes by a wicketkeeper-batter in an ODI World Cup.

South Africa's dominance with the bat was once again on display during their match against New Zealand. Rassie van der Dussen and Quinton de Kock both scored centuries, propelling the team to a mammoth total of 357/4.

As the competition intensifies and the race for the semifinals heats up, Pakistan's hopes have been rejuvenated by New Zealand's defeat. With crucial matches on the horizon, Pakistan will undoubtedly give their all in pursuit of a spot in the last four. The World Cup 2023 continues to provide thrilling cricket moments and unexpected twists that keep fans on the edge of their seats.