Pakistan's campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 came to an end on February 24 when New Zealand beat Bangladesh by five wickets in Rawalpindi. This victory sealed India and New Zealand as the semi-finalists from their group, while Mohammad Rizwan's team went out of the tournament early after not making an impact in their two games.
Pakistan's woes began even before the tournament itself, with opener Saim Ayub being injured. His substitute, Fakhar Zaman, also got injured during the game against New Zealand, leaving the team's batting further exposed. Their bowling also lacked teeth, with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah not being able to hold back runs. The lack of a dependable spin partner for Abrar Ahmed left Pakistan's bowling further exposed.
Pakistan’s Performance in the Tournament:
gainst New Zealand: Pakistan conceded 320 runs, with Will Young and Tom Latham scoring centuries.
gainst India: Pakistan started well but faltered, managing just 241 runs. Virat Kohli’s classy knock ensured India chased down the target comfortably in 43.2 overs.
Unwanted Records for Pakistan:
1. First host country since 2009 to not advance beyond the group stage (last time: South Africa).
2. Fourth defending champion to be knocked out in the group stage, joining ndia and Sri Lanka (2004) and Australia (2013).
Pakistan is set to face Bangladesh on February 27, but with rain looming over the match, they might end up completing the tournament without winning a single match—a forgettable experience for the hosts.
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