Pakistan’s much-anticipated return as a host nation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 came with excitement, expectations, and pressure. With home advantage and a squad full of talented players, fans had high hopes for a repeat of their historic 2017 triumph. However, their journey has already hit an early roadblock after a disappointing loss in their opening match against New Zealand.
A Dream Start Turned Nightmare
Pakistan’s campaign began on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi against a strong New Zealand side. Playing in front of an electrified home crowd, Pakistan looked set to make a statement. But the Kiwis had other plans.
Batting first, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 320-5, thanks to brilliant centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. Despite Pakistan’s bowling attack boasting names like Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, they struggled to contain the opposition in the latter overs. Missed opportunities in the field and an inconsistent bowling performance allowed New Zealand to take control.
In response, Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered under scoreboard pressure. Despite a fighting half-century from captain Mohammad Rizwan, the team couldn’t sustain partnerships, eventually falling short by 60 runs. The middle order collapsed under New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, exposing Pakistan’s lingering concerns with stability in big chases.
Injury Woes: Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out
As if the loss wasn’t bad enough, Pakistan suffered another major setback with opener Fakhar Zaman sustaining an injury while fielding. His absence left a void at the top, forcing the selectors to call up Imam-ul-Haq as a replacement. Fakhar’s aggressive batting style had been crucial in previous tournaments, and his absence adds further pressure on the team’s batting depth ahead of the crucial games.
Must-Win Games Ahead
With only three group-stage matches in the tournament, Pakistan cannot afford another defeat. Their next challenge is a high-pressure clash against India on February 23, but this time on neutral ground in Dubai due to political considerations.
The Pakistan-India rivalry needs no introduction, and this game will be a do-or-die match for Pakistan. A loss would all but eliminate them from semi-final contention, making this the most important game of their campaign.
After that, Pakistan will face Bangladesh in their final group match. While Bangladesh is often considered an underdog, they have shown their ability to upset big teams. Pakistan will need to be at their best to ensure they do not suffer an unexpected exit from the tournament.
Can Pakistan Bounce Back?
Despite the poor start, Pakistan still has a chance to turn things around. Their pace attack remains one of the most lethal in the tournament, and the batting lineup, led by Rizwan and Babar Azam, has the potential to deliver when it matters most. But the team will need to address their issues quickly—especially in finishing their innings strongly with the bat and maintaining discipline in the field.
With two matches left, Pakistan’s fate is still in their hands. A victory against India would not only revive their campaign but also provide a massive confidence boost. Fans will be hoping that the Men in Green can rediscover their magic and fight their way to the knockout stage.
Pakistan has been in tough situations before, and if history has taught us anything, it’s that they thrive under pressure. Now, it’s time to see if they can script yet another comeback in a global tournament.
