The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is heating up, with the ninth match set to pit Pakistan against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on February 27, 2025. This encounter promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams looking to secure crucial points in their quest for pride. Pakistan, under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, boast a strong squad with a mix of experience and youthful talent. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, captained by Najmul Hossain Shanto, will rely on their blend of seasoned players and emerging stars to challenge the hosts.
The stakes are high for both teams, especially after Pakistan’s early setbacks in the tournament, which have left them eliminated within 5 days of the global event. Bangladesh, missing key all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, face a tough challenge but remain optimistic about causing an upset. The match will be a test of resilience and strategy for both sides.
A disappointing outing for both the Asian teams
Pakistan’s campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 has been marred by disappointing performances, leading to their early elimination from the tournament. Their opening match against New Zealand ended in a 60-run defeat, followed by a six-wicket loss to arch-rivals India. Despite showing glimpses of resilience, Pakistan struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, often collapsing under pressure. The team’s inability to adapt to different conditions and their inconsistent batting have been major concerns. Former players and cricket experts have called for significant reforms in Pakistan’s cricket setup, citing issues with domestic cricket and frequent changes in the cricket board as contributing factors to their downfall.
Bangladesh, also eliminated, face a tough road ahead in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their absence of key players like Shakib  has been felt, impacting their overall performance. Despite their spirited efforts, Bangladesh have struggled to match the intensity of top-tier teams. Their batting lineup has shown promise but lacks consistency, while their bowling has been inconsistent in delivering breakthroughs at critical moments. Bangladesh will aim to end the tournament on a high note by causing upset and gaining valuable experience for future tournaments.
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Pakistan’s predicted playing XI against Bangladesh
Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 is well-rounded, with a strong batting lineup and a potent bowling attack. Here’s a look at their predicted XI for the match against Bangladesh:
- Imam-ul-Haq and Babar Azam will likely open the batting, providing solidity at the top with Fakhar Zaman getting ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
- Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha will serve as batting all-rounders, offering depth and versatility in the middle order.
- Mohammad Rizwan will lead from behind the stumps, bringing stability and experience to the batting lineup.
- Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah will add explosive power in the lower middle order.
- The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, forming a lethal pace trio.
- Abrar Ahmed will provide spin options, offering variety and control in the middle overs.
Pakistan’s team selection will focus on maximizing their batting firepower while maintaining a strong bowling unit capable of taking wickets on the Rawalpindi pitch.
Bangladesh’s predicted playing XI against Pakistan
Bangladesh enter the match with a squad that blends youthful energy with seasoned expertise. Here’s a look at their predicted XI for the clash against Pakistan:
- Tanzid Hasan and Soumya Sarkar will open the batting, aiming to provide a solid start with their aggressive style.
- Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the team and bat in the top order, bringing stability and leadership to the batting lineup.
- Towhid Hridoy and Mushfiqur Rahim will anchor the middle order, providing experience and depth.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz will play a crucial role as a bowling all-rounder, contributing with both bat and ball.
- The bowling attack will be led by Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, and Rishad Hossain, offering a mix of pace and variation.
Bangladesh will rely on their experienced players to guide the team while leveraging the unpredictability of their young batters to catch Pakistan off guard.