Pakistan, Bangladesh eye redemption in final Champions Trophy clash
26 Feb 2025

Pakistan and Bangladesh will meet for their last match of the ICC Champions Trophy, at Rawalpindi.

Both the sides have had a disappointing run in the tournament thus far. The upcoming encounter gives them a chance to redeem some pride and end their campaign on a high note.

But, weather forecasts predict potential rain which could dampen spirits further.

Notably, the two teams have met 39 times with Pakistan winning 34 of those games.

Here are further details.

Pakistan's top-order struggles and potential changes
Team performance

Pakistan's performance in the Champions Trophy has been marred by their top-order batters' inability to deliver.

Despite half-centuries from Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam, the team has struggled to make a significant impact.

Mohammad Rizwan's form has also been a concern, leading to speculation that Kamran Ghulam may be brought in for a fresh approach.

Middle order and bowling woes add to Pakistan's troubles
Additional challenges

Beyond the top four, Pakistan's middle order has also struggled with Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha, and Tayyab Tahir unable to break free from stagnation.

The team's quick bowlers have faltered too, with India dominating Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf in previous matches.

Naseem Shah has been better but still looks below his best while Abrar Ahmed's brilliant delivery was overshadowed by his celebration.

Bangladesh's performance mirrors Pakistan's struggles
Opponent's struggles

Bangladesh's Champions Trophy ride has been similar to Pakistan's, with their batting looking one-dimensional.

The side has depended heavily on their lower order to save them from dire straits.

Despite looking promising against New Zealand and India, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Towhid Hridoy will have to up their game against Pakistan.

Veterans Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah are also expected to leave a mark in their last ICC game.

Bowling and future plans for both teams
Looking forward

In bowling, Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana will be expected to shoulder the burden for Bangladesh, with Mustafizur Rahman providing steady support.

Lead spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Rishad Hossain will also have crucial roles to play in Rawalpindi.

Apart from this match, both teams need to focus on their domestic circuit and strategize for improvement in their international squads ahead of the next ICC tournament.

A look at the pitch report
Fact

As per reports, there are chances of rain in this contest. The Australia vs South Africa contest was washed out due to rain. Meanwhile, with pitches being covered, there will be plenty of moisture on the surface.

A look at the predicted playing XIs
Predicted XIs

Predicted XI of Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq/Usman Khan, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi/Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

Predicted XI of Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Tohwid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana.

Pakistan own 12-0 win-loss record versus Bangladesh at home
Fact

Pakistan have beaten Bangladesh in their only previous ODI in Rawalpindi in 2003. As per ESPNcricinfo, Pakistan have a 12-0 overall home record against the Tigers in ODIs.