The ninth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between Pakistan and Bangladesh ended without a ball being bowled due to persistent rain at the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi. The washout marked a frustrating conclusion to the tournament for both teams, who remained winless and finished at the bottom of the points table.
Pakistan’s Struggles in the Tournament
Opening Match vs. New Zealand
Pakistan began their campaign on February 19 against New Zealand, opting to bowl first. However, their bowlers struggled as New Zealand posted an imposing total of 320/5, powered by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. While Naseem Shah managed decent figures of 2/63 in 10 overs, Haris Rauf leaked 83 runs in his spell.
In response, Pakistan faltered in their chase, getting bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs. Despite a fighting 69 off 49 balls from Khushdil Shah and a slow-paced 64 from captain Babar Azam, Pakistan fell short by 60 runs, setting a concerning tone for the rest of their campaign.
Crucial Defeat Against India
In a must-win clash against arch-rivals India in Dubai, Pakistan’s batting once again struggled. Saud Shakeel’s 62 off 76 balls was the only significant contribution as Pakistan managed just 241 before getting bowled out in the final over.
India’s Kuldeep Yadav was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3/40 to restrict Pakistan’s total. The Indian batting lineup, led by a masterful century from Virat Kohli, chased down the target with ease, winning the match with six wickets in hand and 45 balls to spare.
Winless Exit & Uncertain Future
With rain washing out their final match against Bangladesh, Pakistan bowed out of the tournament without a single victory, raising concerns over their preparation and overall performance. The early exit has sparked discussions about the team’s future strategies and areas needing improvement before the next global even
