In a dramatic turn of events at the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan’s hopes of advancing to the semifinals were extinguished after New Zealand defeated Bangladesh by five wickets in their Group A match. The win secured New Zealand's place in the semifinals, while also sending Bangladesh packing from the competition.
Pakistan, under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, had already been in a precarious position following their defeat to India in a crucial match. This loss left Pakistan’s progression dependent on an unlikely Bangladesh victory over the rampant Kiwis. However, New Zealand's calm and collected approach to their win ensured there was no upset, sealing their second consecutive victory in the tournament.
PAKISTAN'S HEARTBREAK AND BANGLADESH'S EXIT
With New Zealand’s victory, both they and India advanced to the semifinals from Group A. Bangladesh’s run in the tournament came to an end, as the final group-stage clash between India and New Zealand on March 2 will determine the top team in the group.
India’s semifinal will be held in Dubai on March 4, while New Zealand will take on their opponent at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on March 5.
PAKISTAN'S DISAPPOINTING CAMPAIGN IN A HISTORIC ICC EVENT
Hosting an ICC event for the first time in 29 years, Pakistan’s performance fell far below expectations, leading to a swift and disappointing exit. Despite the immense support from their fans, the national team could not rise to the occasion.
A TROUBLED START: PAKISTAN'S DEFEAT TO NEW ZEALAND
Pakistan’s campaign began with a tough loss against New Zealand, where they failed to chase down a target of 321 in Karachi. Babar Azam’s innings came under heavy scrutiny as he managed just 64 off 90 balls, failing to set the pace required. Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha tried to revive the chase, but it was too little, too late, as New Zealand comfortably sealed the win.
PRESSURE MOUNTS IN THE MUST-WIN CLASH AGAINST INDIA
Pakistan’s next match, against arch-rivals India, was a do-or-die encounter. Given Pakistan's dismal record against India in ICC events, hopes of a turnaround were slim. Although the team showed some early promise, with Babar Azam’s start indicating potential aggression, their middle-order collapse undermined their progress.
Mohammad Rizwan, struggling to rotate the strike, found it difficult to anchor the innings. As wickets fell in rapid succession, Pakistan ended up with a modest total of 241 runs, far from enough to challenge India.
VIRAT KOHLI'S MASTERCLASS SEALS PAKISTAN’S FATE
Virat Kohli, with his impeccable record against Pakistan, delivered another match-winning performance, dismantling Pakistan’s bowling attack. The likes of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf were all taken to task, while Abrar Ahmed managed a solitary moment of brilliance by dismissing Shubman Gill with a brilliant leg-spinner. However, it was not enough, as India cruised to a six-wicket victory, leaving Pakistan on the brink of elimination.
PAKISTAN'S OFFICIAL ELIMINATION
After the crushing defeat against India, it became clear that Pakistan’s campaign was over. Rizwan acknowledged the inevitable, admitting that the team's chances of progressing were effectively finished. The official confirmation of Pakistan’s elimination came just a day later, marking a painful end to their home tournament.
CONCLUSION: A TOURNAMENT TO FORGET FOR PAKISTAN
Pakistan’s disappointing run in the Champions Trophy 2025 has raised several questions about their performance and strategy. Despite the significant opportunity to shine on home soil, they faltered at key moments, ultimately falling short of the semifinals. As New Zealand and India march ahead, Pakistan will need to reflect on their shortcomings and look for ways to bounce back in future international tournaments.
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