Pakistan and Bangladesh: A Tale of Two Struggling Teams
Pakistan and Bangladesh have had a forgettable Champions Trophy so far, and their final game against each other in Rawalpindi is more about pride and potential improvements than about advancing in the tournament. Both teams have faced significant challenges, with Pakistan’s top-order batters and Bangladesh’s one-dimensional batting struggling to make an impact. With rain in the forecast, the mood in the dressing rooms is likely to be somber, adding to the pressure of their final match.
Pakistan’s Struggle: A Tale of Underperformance
Pakistan’s numbers in their matches against New Zealand and India are a cause for concern. Fakhar Zaman’s injury led to Imam-ul-Haq’s inclusion, but he failed to make a significant contribution. Key batters like Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam managed half-centuries each but couldn’t sustain their form. Mohammad Rizwan, despite a recent century in a tri-series, has looked out of form. The middle order, with Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha, and Tayyab Tahir, has been stagnant, and the quick bowlers, including Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, have struggled to control the opposition. Naseem Shah has been better but not at his best, and Abrar Ahmed’s one standout delivery was overshadowed by his celebratory antics.
Bangladesh’s Challenges: A Mixed Bag
Bangladesh’s issues are not dissimilar, with their batting being one-dimensional and their lower order often having to bail them out. The top order caved in against India, and Michael Bracewell’s offspin decimated their middle order against New Zealand. Najmul Hossain Shanto and Jaker Ali have shown promise, but they might need to step up even more against Pakistan. Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah, two veterans, have failed to ignite, especially given that this could be their last ICC tournament. Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana have been reliable, and while Mustafizur Rahman has been steady, the spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Rishad Hossain will play crucial roles, especially in Rawalpindi’s conditions.
The Weather Factor: A Looming Threat
The weather is a significant concern for both teams. The forecast suggests rain, and the previous match at the venue was abandoned due to wet conditions. The pitch has been under cover for much of the last three days, and there’s a risk of extra moisture affecting the game. Both teams will be hoping for clear skies to ensure the match goes ahead, as a washout would only add to their frustrations.
Possible Team Changes: A Fresh Start?
Pakistan might consider bringing in new faces to freshen up their squad. Options like Kamran Ghulam and Faheem Ashraf could be given a chance to add balance to the team. Usman Khan is another batting option. For Bangladesh, the focus might be on Jaker Ali and his strong hitting, and possibly tinker with their wicketkeeping by including him if Mushfiqur Rahim is rested. Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana are expected to lead the bowling attack, while spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Rishad Hossain will have a pivotal role on a pitch that might favor them.
Historical Context and Stats: A Look Back
This will be the first Pakistan vs Bangladesh contest in Champions Trophy history, and the teams have a rich history of matches in ODIs. Pakistan holds a dominant 12-0 home record against Bangladesh in ODIs, with their last meeting in Rawalpindi in 2003 ending in a Pakistani victory. The fast bowlers from both teams have taken 11 wickets, but Bangladesh’s pacers have a better bowling average (44.83) and economy rate (5.12) compared to Pakistan’s (63.50 and 7.18, respectively). Both teams will look beyond this game, setting their priorities right in the domestic circuit and aiming for improvements in future international tournaments.
