RAWALPINDI – Pakistan’s hopes of advancing in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 were officially dashed on Monday as New Zealand clinched victory over Bangladesh, sealing their fate in the key tournament.
In crucial game at Pindi Cricket Stadium, a dominant bowling effort ensured New Zealand would go on to win the match, pushing Pakistan out of contention for the semi-finals.
Today’s match was crucial for both teams and for Pakistan’s CT25 tournament hopes. Bangladesh team also joined Pakistan to go home. New Zealand has 2 points from their win over Pakistan, while both Bangladesh and Pakistan are yet to score points.
New Zealand chased down a target of 237 with ease, defeating Bangladesh by 23 runs in a crucial game. After a disastrous start, with New Zealand reeling at 15-2 due to early wickets from Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana, Rachin Ravindra’s brilliant return from injury turned the game. Ravindra, alongside Devon Conway, added 47 runs for the third wicket before Conway fell for 30.
A match-defining 129-run partnership between Ravindra and Tom Latham followed, with Ravindra scoring a magnificent 112 off 105 balls. Latham contributed a steady 55 runs. Despite Latham’s run out, Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell sealed the victory for New Zealand with 23 balls to spare.
Bracewell’s outstanding 4-wicket haul, along with support from Will O’Rourke, Matt Henry, and Kyle Jamieson, ensured that Bangladesh could not set a more formidable target.
As New Zealand successfully restricted Bangladesh, Pakistan’s chances of progressing were officially eliminated, making it a bittersweet moment for the team. With the result of the match, New Zealand has moved closer to securing a semi-final spot, while Pakistan’s journey in the prestigious tournament came to an unfortunate end.
The match also highlighted New Zealand’s strength in the tournament as they look forward to their upcoming fixtures, while Pakistan will reflect on their early exit from the competition
Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan’s squad against India after Key Changes
