Pakistan’s performance in the ICC Champions Trophy has been disappointing. After losing two back-to-back matches, their upcoming game against Bangladesh is crucial. If New Zealand wins against Bangladesh, this match will not affect the tournament. However, Pakistan will still aim to secure a victory and fix their weaknesses before the tournament ends.
- Pakistan must win against Bangladesh to keep their hopes alive.
- Usman Khan could replace Tayyab Tahir in the playing XI.
- Pakistan might drop Haris Rauf for Mohammad Hasnain.
Tayyab Tahir’s Struggles – Usman Khan In?
Tayyab Tahir has struggled in the tournament, scoring just five runs in two matches. His poor form has put pressure on the middle order. Pakistan has the option to replace him with Usman Khan, a talented batter who can provide stability and aggression at the top.
Why Usman Khan Should Play?
If Usman Khan opens the batting, Pakistan can send Babar Azam to his preferred No. 3 position. This change allows a stronger middle order with Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Agha Salman, and Khushdil Shah in their ideal batting spots.
Usman Khan’s Impact:
- Strengthens Pakistan’s top order.
- Allows Babar Azam to bat at No. 3.
- Provides an aggressive start to the innings.
Pakistan’s Bowling Dilemma – Who Should Be Dropped?
Pakistan’s fast bowlers have struggled in the tournament. Let’s look at their performances:
| Bowler | Wickets | Average/Strike Rate | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaheen Afridi | 2 | 71/54 | 7.88 |
| Naseem Shah | 2 | 50/54 | 5.55 |
| Haris Rauf | 2 | 67.50/51 | 7.94 |
Who Should Make Way?
Shaheen Afridi is Pakistan’s only left-arm fast bowler and has a great record against Bangladesh. He dismissed Rohit Sharma with a brilliant delivery in the last match.
Naseem Shah has been the most economical bowler with an economy rate of 5.55, making him a reliable option. However, Haris Rauf has been expensive and inconsistent. If Pakistan decides to make a change, Mohammad Hasnain could replace Rauf for the final match.
Pakistan’s Best XI Against Bangladesh
- Usman Khan
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK)
- Saud Shakeel
- Agha Salman
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Abrar Ahmed
This lineup provides balance in batting and bowling, giving Pakistan the best chance to finish their campaign on a strong note.
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
