Pakistan and Bangladesh, both out of Champions Trophy 2025, face each other in a dead rubber match. Both teams aim to restore pride after poor performances.
Pakistan and Bangladesh, both eliminated from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, are set to face each other in a match with little consequence. The game offers both teams a chance to salvage some pride after disappointing campaigns.
Pakistan’s Struggles
Pakistan’s performance in the tournament has been underwhelming, marked by defeats to New Zealand and India. This marks their third consecutive exit in the group stages of a major white-ball tournament, following similar results in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup. Fans have expressed their frustration, demanding changes to the country’s cricketing structure.
One of the main issues for Pakistan has been their overly cautious approach. Their top order has been slow to accelerate, often waiting until the 35th over to increase their scoring rate. This lack of urgency was evident in their matches against New Zealand and India, where they played a high number of dot balls – 161 and 147 respectively.
Poor shot selection, fielding lapses, and injuries have further compounded Pakistan’s problems. The absence of Fakhar Zaman due to injury created a void at the top, and his replacement, Imam-ul-Haq, has not been able to fill it effectively. Key players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have also underperformed.
Pakistan’s bowling attack, traditionally a strength, has also been ineffective. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf have not been at their best, lacking the potency they once displayed. Off the field, the team has experienced constant upheaval, with numerous changes in selectors, coaches, and captains.
According to a report in Cricket Pakistan, internal conflict between captain Mohammad Rizwan and head coach Aaqib Javed also contributed to the poor performance. Disagreements over team selection, such as the inclusion of Khushdil Shah versus Faheem Ashraf, highlighted a lack of coordination within the team management. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s suggestions for squad changes were also reportedly ignored.
Bangladesh’s Disappointment
Bangladesh, like Pakistan, has also been eliminated from the tournament after losses to India and New Zealand. Their batting lineup has struggled, with only occasional sparks from Towhid Hridoy, Najmul Hossain Shanto, and Jaker Ali.
Despite their strength against spin at home, Bangladesh has been vulnerable against slower bowlers in this campaign. Sloppy fielding has also cost them, with dropped catches in crucial moments.
Match Expectations
Despite their struggles, both Pakistan and Bangladesh will be looking to end their Champions Trophy campaign on a positive note. For Pakistan, it is a chance to restore some pride and test different strategies. Bangladesh will aim to exploit Pakistan’s current form and secure a morale-boosting victory.
Sources: https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/pak-vs-ban-live-cricket-score-pakistan-vs-bangladesh-champions-trophy-2025-9th-match-live-scorecard-updates-rawalpindi-cricket-stadium-rawalpindi-9858812/
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/pakistan-vs-bangladesh-live-score-today-icc-champions-trophy-2025-match-pak-vs-ban-live-streaming-rawalpindi/liveblog/118597556.cms
https://sports.ndtv.com/icc-champions-trophy-2025/internal-conflict-led-to-pakistans-early-exit-from-champions-trophy-report-7800953