Pakistan’s final Champions Trophy match against Bangladesh was abandoned due to rain, resulting in a disappointing finish to their title defense. The team concluded the tournament with no wins, finishing last in Group A. Both captains expressed their dismay at the situation, and the match had been significant only for pride as both teams were already eliminated from semi-final contention.
The Champions Trophy match between Pakistan and Bangladesh was abandoned in Rawalpindi due to persistent rain, resulting in a disappointing end to Pakistan’s title defense. The hosts, who emerged victorious in the tournament in 2017, suffered losses to New Zealand and India, finishing at the bottom of Group A with no wins. Both teams, having been eliminated from semi-final contention, faced a match that held no stakes other than pride.
Pakistan’s struggle to advance beyond the group stage or secure a win came as a significant disappointment, especially given that they were hosting their first major cricket tournament in three decades. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan expressed the team’s regret, stating, “The expectations were very high but we didn’t perform well and it is disappointing for us.”
Meanwhile, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto shared similar sentiments, noting the team’s desire to compete in the match despite the unfavorable weather. The match was ultimately called off after several pitch inspections, maintaining a constant rain throughout the day.
In the final standings, Pakistan secured fourth place in Group A with one point, just below Bangladesh, who also finished with one point but held a superior net run-rate. India and New Zealand advanced to the semi-finals, while the competition continues in Group B, where South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan vie for the remaining semi-final positions, leaving England out of contention.
The abandonment of the match due to rain marked a disappointing conclusion for Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign, in which they finished without a victory. Both teams expressed their dissatisfaction over the missed opportunity to compete, particularly given the significance of the tournament for Pakistan. The outcome reflects the high expectations placed upon the hosts, who were unable to deliver in the crucial moments of the competition.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
