In their opening match against New Zealand, Pakistan faced a formidable challenge. New Zealand set a daunting target of 321 runs, thanks to centuries from Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118*). Pakistan's response was insufficient, managing only 260 runs, despite notable contributions from Babar Azam (64) and Khushdil Shah (69). The match also featured a remarkable one-handed catch by Glenn Phillips, dismissing Pakistan's captain and further dampening their chase.
The subsequent match against arch-rivals India was crucial for Pakistan's hopes of advancing. Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a total of 241 runs, with Saud Shakeel scoring 62 and Mohammad Rizwan adding 46. India’s chase was anchored by Virat Kohli, who delivered an unbeaten 100, leading his team to a six-wicket victory with 45 balls to spare. This defeat left Pakistan's progression dependent on other match outcomes.
The early exit has sparked significant criticism from former players and experts. Shahid Afridi, a former captain, emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of Pakistan's cricketing approach, highlighting that the team's outdated style doesn't align with modern aggressive play.
Similarly, Sana Mir, another former captain, criticized team selection and strategy, suggesting that even experienced leaders would struggle with the current squad composition.
Beyond on-field performance, Pakistan's cricket infrastructure has faced scrutiny. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has experienced frequent leadership changes, with four chairmen and eight different coaches in the past three years. This instability has been cited as a contributing factor to the team's inconsistent performances.
This early exit not only affects team morale but also has broader implications for Pakistan's cricketing reputation and brand value. Consistent underperformance in major tournaments can deter sponsors and impact the sport's growth in the country. Pakistan's early departure from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 underscores the need for introspection and strategic changes within the team and its management. Addressing both on-field strategies and off-field organizational issues will be crucial for Pakistan to reclaim its stature in international cricket.