ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Bangladesh will face off in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
With both teams already eliminated from the tournament, the match will serve as an opportunity for them to restore some pride and end their campaign on a positive note.
The cricketing history between Pakistan and Bangladesh has evolved over decades. Since their first One Day International (ODI) meeting in 1986, the two teams have faced off 39 times in this format.
Pakistan has historically dominated, securing 34 victories, while Bangladesh has emerged triumphant in 5 matches.
However, Bangladesh’s performance has improved in recent years, reflecting its growth on the international stage.
Setbacks for both teams
In the lead-up to this tournament, both teams have experienced mixed fortunes. Pakistan, despite being a defending champion, faced setbacks with losses to New Zealand and India.
Their recent defeat to India, highlighted by Virat Kohli’s exceptional century, has thrown them out of the competition.
Bangladesh, under the leadership of Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, has shown resilience. Despite the absence of star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, the team has demonstrated depth and determination.
Their recent performances suggest a side capable of challenging higher-ranked opponents, making them a formidable contender in this matchup.
Key players to watch
Babar Azam: Renowned for his elegant batting, Babar’s ability to anchor the innings is important for Pakistan’s success.
Shaheen Afridi: Leading the pace attack, Afridi’s early breakthroughs can set the tone for Pakistan’s bowling performance.
Mushfiqur Rahim: The experienced wicketkeeper-batsman provides stability in the middle order and is important in guiding younger players.
Mustafizur Rahman: With his deceptive variations, Mustafizur poses a significant threat, especially in the death overs.
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is known for its batting-friendly pitches, often resulting in high-scoring encounters.
However, the forecast predicts overcast conditions on match day, which could help fast bowlers. Captains might consider these factors when deciding whether to bat or bowl first, balancing the pitch’s nature with potential weather-induced swing.
Ensuring a solid start will be essential for both teams to build a competitive total. Also maintaining sharp fielding standards can prevent crucial runs and build pressure.