Pakistan and Bangladesh will face off in their last group-stage match of the 2025 Champions Trophy, having already been eliminated from the competition. Weather conditions in Rawalpindi may affect gameplay, and both teams are looking to improve their struggling batting line-ups. There are calls for significant changes within the Pakistani team to enhance performance moving forward.
Pakistan is set to confront Bangladesh in their final group-stage match of the 2025 Champions Trophy in Rawalpindi on Thursday. Unfortunately, both teams are already eliminated from the tournament, with India and New Zealand securing their semi-final spots. This match primarily serves to determine which team will finish third in the group, with Pakistan hoping for a consolation win to close out their disappointing campaign.
The weather forecast for Rawalpindi indicates a cloudy day with chances of rain, making conditions uncertain for the match. The temperature is expected to be in the low 20s with precipitation possibilities rising to about 88%. Such weather could significantly impact the game, as previously witnessed in an earlier match that was washed out due to rain.
Both teams have faced challenges with their batting line-ups throughout the tournament. Pakistan’s top-order batsmen have come under scrutiny for their performance, while Bangladesh has struggled to achieve consistent runs. This ongoing difficulty emphasizes the need for improvement in both teams’ batting units as they conclude their campaign.
Bangladesh’s captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, expressed concern, stating, “We have to really, really focus on how we want to improve our batting… after this tournament, we will make some changes as a batting unit.” This reflects a commitment to address their batting woes as they look to the future.
Sunil Gavaskar, a celebrated Indian cricketer, has criticized Pakistan’s current form, suggesting that even a second-string Indian team could pose a substantial challenge for them. Furthermore, Wasim Akram has condemned the team’s outdated playing style, insisting that Pakistan must adopt a bolder, more innovative approach to regain competitiveness on the world stage.
As the match approaches, scrutiny on players like Shaheen Shah Afridi continues, given his unimpressive performance in the tournament. Suggestions have emerged about replacing him with Mohammad Hasnain in the playing XI, reflecting the urgent need for changes within the team to enhance performance.
Concerns over the future of Pakistan cricket have been voiced by former players, including Mudassar Nazar, who fears that the team may head down a decline similar to Pakistani hockey. He also recommends that captain Babar Azam take a break to reassess the team’s direction.
As Pakistan and Bangladesh prepare for their final clash in the 2025 Champions Trophy, both teams aim to end their campaigns on a high note after being eliminated. With significant weather concerns and batting difficulties, both teams must reflect on their performances. Notable cricket figures are calling for substantial changes within Pakistan’s setup, suggesting a need for a shift in strategy and training to enhance future competitiveness.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
