Pakistan and Bangladesh aim to end their disappointing Champions Trophy campaigns on a high as they face off in Rawalpindi. Both teams have struggled, with Pakistan’s top order failing to deliver. Fakhar Zaman’s injury led to Imam-ul-Haq’s inclusion, but he hasn’t impressed. Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam have managed a fifty each, yet lacked impact. Mohammad Rizwan, despite his tri-series century, has looked out of form. Pakistan might consider Kamran Ghulam to refresh the lineup.
Their middle order has also lacked fluency. Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha, and Tayyab Tahir play similar roles, stagnating the innings. Faheem Ashraf could add balance but hasn’t been given a chance. The pace attack has also been inconsistent. India dominated Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, while Naseem Shah has been steady but not at his best. Abrar Ahmed has shown promise but remains untested against Bangladesh’s batting.
Bangladesh’s struggles have mirrored Pakistan’s, except their pacers have fared slightly better. Their batting has been one-dimensional, relying on the lower order. Najmul Hossain Shanto and Jaker Ali have shown some form, while Towhid Hridoy’s century against India was a highlight. However, veterans Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah must step up in what could be their final ICC event.
Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana will lead the attack again, with Mustafizur Rahman providing steady support. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Rishad Hossain will be key on a Rawalpindi pitch that could assist spinners.
Rain threatens to disrupt the game, just as it did the previous match at the venue. Regardless of the result, both teams need to reassess their approach before the next ICC event.
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