Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Campaign Ends in Disappointment as Match is Abandoned
Pakistan’s final group match against Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy was abandoned due to rain, ending their title defense without any victories. They finished at the bottom of Group A, while India and New Zealand advanced to the semi-finals. Concerns have been raised about Pakistan’s cricket administration amidst the team’s performance issues.
The final match of the Champions Trophy group stage between Pakistan and Bangladesh on Thursday was abandoned due to continuous rain in Rawalpindi, marking a disappointing end to Pakistan’s title defense. After winning the tournament in 2017, Pakistan failed to secure a victory in this year’s competition, losing to both New Zealand and India, thus finishing last in Group A.
Both teams entered the match already eliminated from semi-final contention, with this game only holding significance for the sake of pride. Pakistan concluded the tournament with just one point across three matches, placing them lower than Bangladesh, despite both teams having the same points; Bangladesh had a superior net run-rate.
Persistent overnight rain led to multiple inspections by umpires, yet no play was possible throughout the day. Consequently, India and New Zealand advanced to the semi-finals from Group A, while Group B features South Africa, Australia, and Afghanistan competing for the remaining semi-final slots. England has been eliminated from contention.
Attaullah Tarar has sharply criticized the Indian media for attempting to politicize sports and propagate certain narratives. Former captain Shahid Afridi also emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of the system regarding cricket administration in Pakistan. Meanwhile, a German-born member of the AKP’s central council, a 2014 World Cup winner, has become a topic of discussion in sports circles.
Additionally, India and New Zealand’s performances secured their spots in the semi-finals, while Tom Latham’s half-century significantly contributed to the Blackcaps’ success. Virat Kohli commented on his performance, stating, “My job was clear – to control in the middle overs, not take risks against spinners.”
The abandonment of the Pakistan-Bangladesh match due to rain concluded a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign for Pakistan, who failed to win any matches and finished at the bottom of their group. This disappointment is particularly felt as Pakistan hosted a major tournament for the first time in thirty years. Criticism has surfaced regarding the management of the cricketing system in Pakistan, reflecting a need for significant reform as the tournament progresses into the semi-finals.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
