India have secured a spot in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, while Pakistan’s title defence ended in disappointment as they were eliminated in the group stage. New Zealand also advanced to the semi-finals after defeating Bangladesh by five wickets in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan's early exit has come as a major setback, especially since they were hosting an ICC tournament at home for the first time in 29 years.
Reports suggest that head coach Aaqib Javed could be sacked just three months into his tenure due to the team’s poor performance. Following Pakistan’s loss to India, cricketing legends criticised the team for lacking passion and professionalism.
Javed Miandad, a former Pakistan captain, dismissed excuses about the system and selection, questioning the players' mindset and body language during the high-stakes match against India.
He stated that the team looked under pressure even before the game began, which contributed to their downfall.
India’s victory over Pakistan was driven by a strong bowling performance and a century from Virat Kohli. The disciplined effort helped India chase down the target of 241 with ease, sealing Pakistan’s exit from the tournament.
The defeat further exposed Pakistan’s vulnerabilities, with their famed pace attack failing to make an impact against India’s batting lineup.
New Zealand’s qualification for the semi-finals was secured with a convincing win over Bangladesh. Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant century and Michael Bracewell’s four-wicket haul played key roles in the victory.
Despite a solid start from Bangladesh, they struggled to capitalise, finishing at 236 for nine in 50 overs.
The Blackcaps faced an early setback in their chase, losing key wickets, but Ravindra and Tom Latham steadied the innings, guiding them to victory. With this loss, Bangladesh were also eliminated from the competition, having lost both their matches.
Pakistan’s campaign in the tournament was marked by missed opportunities and poor performances. Their opening match against New Zealand saw them concede 320 runs, with Tom Latham and Will Young scoring centuries.
Despite Fakhar Zaman’s efforts, Pakistan’s batting lacked intent, and they fell short in the chase.
Their crucial match against India was a must-win, but slow batting and an ineffective bowling display led to another defeat. Kohli’s century ensured India comfortably chased down the target, confirming Pakistan’s elimination.
With their group-stage exit, Pakistan became only the fourth defending champion to be knocked out in the opening round of the Champions Trophy. India and Sri Lanka, who were joint-winners in 2002, failed to progress beyond the group stage in 2004. Australia also faced a similar fate in the 2013 edition.
Pakistan’s final match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi is set for February 27, but rain threatens to wash out the game. If that happens, Pakistan could end the tournament without a single victory, marking a disappointing end to their campaign.
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