The ninth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh was called off without a ball being bowled on Thursday due to persistent rain, marking a disappointing end to the tournament for both sides.
The fixture, scheduled at the National Bank Cricket Arena, had raised expectations for a competitive contest, but continuous downpours throughout the day left officials with no option but to abandon the match. The weather showed no signs of improvement, preventing even the toss from taking place.
As a result, Pakistan and Bangladesh concluded their campaigns winless, languishing at the bottom of the points table.
Pakistan’s disappointing run
Pakistan had opened their Champions Trophy campaign on February 19 against New Zealand in Karachi. Opting to bowl first, the home side struggled to contain a well-disciplined Blackcaps batting lineup, which posted a formidable 320 for five. Will Young and Tom Latham anchored the innings with commanding centuries.
Among Pakistan’s bowlers, Naseem Shah was the standout performer with figures of 2 for 63 in 10 overs, while Haris Rauf proved expensive, conceding 83 runs in his full quota.
In reply, Pakistan faltered in their chase, managing 260 all out in 47.2 overs. All-rounder Khushdil Shah top-scored with a brisk 69 off 49 balls, while captain Babar Azam contributed a laboured 64 off 90 deliveries.
Crucial defeat against India
Facing India in a must-win clash in Dubai, Pakistan’s batting woes persisted. The side posted a modest total of 241 before being bowled out in the final over, with Saud Shakeel’s cautious 62 off 76 balls being the lone notable contribution.
India’s left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav led the bowling attack with figures of 3 for 40, restricting Pakistan’s efforts to accelerate. In response, India comfortably chased down the target, losing just four wickets with 45 balls to spare. A masterful century by Virat Kohli ensured his side’s dominance in the encounter.
With rain bringing a premature end to their final fixture, Pakistan finished the tournament without a single win, raising further questions over their preparation and performance in the high-profile event.
