In the highly anticipated ninth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hosts Pakistan are set to face off against Bangladesh at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, February 27. While neither team can progress in the tournament, both are eager to wrap up their campaign on a high note, offering a much-needed victory for their loyal but disappointed supporters.
As Pakistan and Bangladesh prepare for what will be their final appearance in this tournament, they’ve both had a tough run, succumbing to defeats against India and New Zealand in their earlier group stage encounters. With only pride on the line, let’s delve into what to expect from this clash.
Match Snapshot:
- Match: Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Match 9
- Date and Time: February 27, 2025, at 2:30 PM IST
- Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
- Broadcast: Star Sports, Sports18
- Streaming: JioStar
Head-to-Head:
Historically, Pakistan has had the upper hand in ODIs against Bangladesh, winning 34 out of the 39 encounters between the two sides. At home, Pakistan’s record is flawless, having triumphed in all 12 matches held on their turf against Bangladesh. In the most recent head-to-head skirmishes, Pakistan leads with three wins to Bangladesh’s single victory in their last five matches.
Pitch and Conditions:
The surface at Rawalpindi is reputed to be a batsman’s paradise, promising a lot of runs as bowlers find it challenging to make inroads. The average score of 211 in the first innings may well be eclipsed if recent high-scoring games are anything to go by. Teams chasing have a slight edge at this ground, managing 15 wins compared to 12 by the teams setting a target. This venue’s most recent match saw New Zealand successfully chase down a target against Bangladesh, indicating potential for another thrilling chase.
Weather Outlook:
Forecasts suggest the weather could play a spoil-sport, with rain predicted throughout the day and a 70 percent chance of showers during the match. Just earlier in the week, rain resulted in the Australia vs. South Africa game being called off without a ball bowled. Temperatures are expected to linger between 13-17 degrees Celsius, adding a chilly touch to the proceedings.
Probable Team Line-ups:
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Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed
- Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Mustafizur Rahman
Form and Fitness:
Encouraging news for fans: both squads appear to be in good shape with no major injury woes.
Score Projection:
- Pakistan: First Innings: 320-330, Second Innings: 280-290
- Bangladesh: First Innings: 240-250, Second Innings: 220-230
Players to Watch:
For Pakistan, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Afridi are expected to shine. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will be looking towards Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali, and Taskin Ahmed to deliver standout performances.
Key Performers:
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Best Batsman:
- Pakistan: Who will outscore the other, Babar Azam or Mohammad Rizwan?
- Bangladesh: Will it be Najmul Hossain Shanto or Towhid Hridoy stealing the show?
- Best Bowler:
- Pakistan: Will Shaheen Afridi or Naseem Shah claim more wickets?
- Bangladesh: Taskin Ahmed or Rishad Hossain – who will have the upper hand?
Final Thoughts:
Despite their recent struggles, Pakistan emerges as the favorite to clinch victory against Bangladesh in this match. However, only time will tell if they can rise to the occasion and deliver a win for their fans.
