Pakistan's disappointing Champions Trophy 2025 campaign had a new low on Thursday (Feb 27) after the defending champions and hosts were ousted without a win during the tournament. After the clash against Bangladesh was called off due to rain, Mohammad Rizwan and Co. ended the tournament without a win. After the washout, Rizwan stated that Pakistan have scope for improvement as they look to build for future tournaments.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rizwan opens up on Champions Trophy exit</h2>
&ldquo;The expectations from the whole nation are high, but we didn't perform and that is disappointing for us. Obviously, you can learn from the mistakes. Thankfully, we noticed our mistakes from the tri-series and the big tournament. Hopefully, we can work on it when we play against New Zealand next and, hopefully we can improve there," said Rizwan in the post-match press conference.
&ldquo;Basically, the guy (Saim Ayyub) who has performed well in Australia and here, he is injured. The team gets disturbed. But as a captain, you have to look forward as you are playing for Pakistan. We have a lot of talent, we didn't give it as an excuse that Saim Ayub was injured and Fakhar Zaman was injured,&rdquo; added Rizwan.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ravi-shastris-advice-for-drowning-england-after-afghanistan-bashing-8761218" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri&rsquo;s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing</a>
Having lost to New Zealand and India in their opening two matches of the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan were optimistic about a favourable result on Monday. However, Bangladesh&rsquo;s defeat to New Zealand confirmed the hosts&rsquo; exit from the tournament. There was pride up for stake in the final group stage match on Thursday, however, the washout meant neither Pakistan nor Bangladesh ended the tournament with a win.
The poor run means Pakistan have exited the last three ICC tournaments in the initial stage. Pakistan were knocked out in the league stage of the 2023 ODI World Cup, while a run of poor results in the 2024 T20 World Cup also saw them exit in the group stage. Not since reaching the 2022 T20 World Cup final has Pakistan enjoyed a good run in an ICC tournament.
&nbsp;

Sports, Cricket: Pakistan's disappointing Champions Trophy 2025 campaign had a new low after the defending champions and hosts were ousted without a win during the tournament.

Pakistan's disappointing Champions Trophy 2025 campaign had a new low on Thursday (Feb 27) after the defending champions and hosts were ousted without a win during the tournament. After the clash against Bangladesh was called off due to rain, Mohammad Rizwan and Co. ended the tournament without a win. After the washout, Rizwan stated that Pakistan have scope for improvement as they look to build for future tournaments. Rizwan opens up on Champions Trophy exit “The expectations from the whole nation are high, but we didn't perform and that is disappointing for us. Obviously, you can learn from the mistakes. Thankfully, we noticed our mistakes from the tri-series and the big tournament. Hopefully, we can work on it when we play against New Zealand next and, hopefully we can improve there," said Rizwan in the post-match press conference. “Basically, the guy (Saim Ayyub) who has performed well in Australia and here, he is injured. The team gets disturbed. But as a captain, you have to look forward as you are playing for Pakistan. We have a lot of talent, we didn't give it as an excuse that Saim Ayub was injured and Fakhar Zaman was injured,” added Rizwan. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri’s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing Having lost to New Zealand and India in their opening two matches of the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan were optimistic about a favourable result on Monday. However, Bangladesh’s defeat to New Zealand confirmed the hosts’ exit from the tournament. There was pride up for stake in the final group stage match on Thursday, however, the washout meant neither Pakistan nor Bangladesh ended the tournament with a win. The poor run means Pakistan have exited the last three ICC tournaments in the initial stage. Pakistan were knocked out in the league stage of the 2023 ODI World Cup, while a run of poor results in the 2024 T20 World Cup also saw them exit in the group stage. Not since reaching the 2022 T20 World Cup final has Pakistan enjoyed a good run in an ICC tournament.

Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Rizwan opens up on early Pakistan exit, says 'we can improve'

Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi said that the team is planning for the entire Australian team and not just Glenn Maxwell. The comments were in context of Maxwell's 2023 ODI World Cup innings when he hit 200 while cramped badly and took the team home from 91/7. The loss had ended Afghanistan's campaign in the ICC tournament.
"You think we will come only to play with Maxwell?," said Shahidi when asked about the 2023 WC meeting vs Australia after beating England in the Champions Trophy on Feb 26.
Champions Trophy: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-coach-jonathan-trott-confident-afghanistan-never-going-to-be-taken-lightly-ever-again-after-england-win-8762158">Coach Jonathan Trott confident 'Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again' after England win</a>
The win kept Afghanistan alive in the ICC tournament but sent England packing home, their third disappointing ICC tournament on the trot.
"We have planning for all Australian team. I know that he (Maxwell) played really well in 2023 World Cup, but that's part of history."
"After that, we beat them in [the] T20 World Cup. We think about all [the] opposition team, we are not coming to the ground to plan on [an] individual player. We will try our best to come with the planning and we are not playing only Maxwell - we are playing Australia."
"We will try to play positive game - just like we defeated England today, we hope to beat Australia as well," Shahidi said. "We won't put that pressure on ourselves by thinking too much about the semi-final qualification," he added.
Afghanistan next play against Australia, which is a do-or-die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B.
In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match, and that too by a huge margin.&nbsp;
In case Australia wins, then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points, while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Cricket | Sports: Champions Trophy: The win on Feb 26 kept Afghanistan alive in the ICC tournament but sent England packing home - their third disappointing ICC tournament on the trot.

Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi said that the team is planning for the entire Australian team and not just Glenn Maxwell. The comments were in context of Maxwell's 2023 ODI World Cup innings when he hit 200 while cramped badly and took the team home from 91/7. The loss had ended Afghanistan's campaign in the ICC tournament. "You think we will come only to play with Maxwell?," said Shahidi when asked about the 2023 WC meeting vs Australia after beating England in the Champions Trophy on Feb 26. Champions Trophy: Coach Jonathan Trott confident 'Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again' after England win The win kept Afghanistan alive in the ICC tournament but sent England packing home, their third disappointing ICC tournament on the trot. "We have planning for all Australian team. I know that he (Maxwell) played really well in 2023 World Cup, but that's part of history." "After that, we beat them in [the] T20 World Cup. We think about all [the] opposition team, we are not coming to the ground to plan on [an] individual player. We will try our best to come with the planning and we are not playing only Maxwell - we are playing Australia." "We will try to play positive game - just like we defeated England today, we hope to beat Australia as well," Shahidi said. "We won't put that pressure on ourselves by thinking too much about the semi-final qualification," he added. Afghanistan next play against Australia, which is a do-or-die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B. In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match, and that too by a huge margin. In case Australia wins, then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points, while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Champions Trophy: 'Just like we defeated England...,' Afghan skipper Shahidi exudes confidence for AUS game

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy</a> host and holders, Pakistan, went winless in the home edition after rain forced a washout in Rawalpindi in their last league game against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). Pakistan staged the first ICC event in almost three decades, having last co-hosted the ODI World Cup in 1996, and ended up on the losing side in two contested mamatches&mdash;ainst New Zealand and India.
After going down in the two marquee matches in Group A, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/host-defending-champions-pakistan-out-of-champions-trophy-after-new-zealand-beat-bangladesh-in-rawalpindi-8753319" rel="dofollow">Pakistan&rsquo;s highly-anticipated campaign ended in misery</a> just six days into the tournament. Although their loss to the Kiwis in the curtain-raiser was hurting for the fans to watch, losing to India in their next match in Dubai crushed their hopes of advancing to the next round.
They still, however, had a game in hand (against Bangladesh) to play and win and end the first showpiece event of the year with at least one win, but the Rain Gods had other plans.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-champions-trophy-rohit-sharma-skips-training-gill-remains-absent-new-look-batting-lineup-for-kiwi-clash-8761858" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Rohit doubtful for New Zealand match; unwell Gill misses training</a>
However, even before the India-Pakistan match, reports of rain playing spoilsport in Pakistan&rsquo;s last home game, potentially spoiling their chances of sealing a semifinal berth, did rounds on the internet.
Knowing Pakistan had already lost one game (to New Zealand) by then, a win over India would have made it three points, which were not enough had India and New Zealand ended with four points each.
<h2>Pakistan cricket in mud!</h2>
Pakistan has seen contrasting results in the past fortnight.
While chasing over 340 against New Zealand during one of the home tri-series games brought joy to the fans worldwide, getting eliminated from the home ICC tournament and becoming the first team to do so in this edition hurt them even more.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-eng-dressing-room-erupts-in-joy-after-afghanistan-win-first-champions-trophy-match-against-england-watch-8760685" rel="dofollow">Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match</a>
Not for the first time did Pakistan suffer such a result in an ICC tournament. During the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan failed to reach the semis despite the playing conditions favouring them throughout. What followed next was worse.
At next year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Pakistan lost to the co-host USA in their first game before going down to India in their next. Although they beat Canada in a relatively closer contest, a washout against Ireland sent them packing from the preliminary round.&nbsp;
At this year&rsquo;s Champions Trophy, Pakistan were upbeat about putting the past behind them and delivering powerful performances; however, none of that happened, as they ended the home campaign with zero wins from three matches, with just one point coming from the washed-out result against Bangladesh.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: At this year’s Champions Trophy, Pakistan were upbeat about putting the past behind them and delivering powerful performances; however, none of that happened.

The ICC Champions Trophy host and holders, Pakistan, went winless in the home edition after rain forced a washout in Rawalpindi in their last league game against Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). Pakistan staged the first ICC event in almost three decades, having last co-hosted the ODI World Cup in 1996, and ended up on the losing side in two contested mamatches—ainst New Zealand and India. After going down in the two marquee matches in Group A, Pakistan’s highly-anticipated campaign ended in misery just six days into the tournament. Although their loss to the Kiwis in the curtain-raiser was hurting for the fans to watch, losing to India in their next match in Dubai crushed their hopes of advancing to the next round. They still, however, had a game in hand (against Bangladesh) to play and win and end the first showpiece event of the year with at least one win, but the Rain Gods had other plans. Also read | Champions Trophy: Rohit doubtful for New Zealand match; unwell Gill misses training However, even before the India-Pakistan match, reports of rain playing spoilsport in Pakistan’s last home game, potentially spoiling their chances of sealing a semifinal berth, did rounds on the internet. Knowing Pakistan had already lost one game (to New Zealand) by then, a win over India would have made it three points, which were not enough had India and New Zealand ended with four points each. Pakistan cricket in mud! Pakistan has seen contrasting results in the past fortnight. While chasing over 340 against New Zealand during one of the home tri-series games brought joy to the fans worldwide, getting eliminated from the home ICC tournament and becoming the first team to do so in this edition hurt them even more. Also read | Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match Not for the first time did Pakistan suffer such a result in an ICC tournament. During the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan failed to reach the semis despite the playing conditions favouring them throughout. What followed next was worse. At next year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, Pakistan lost to the co-host USA in their first game before going down to India in their next. Although they beat Canada in a relatively closer contest, a washout against Ireland sent them packing from the preliminary round. At this year’s Champions Trophy, Pakistan were upbeat about putting the past behind them and delivering powerful performances; however, none of that happened, as they ended the home campaign with zero wins from three matches, with just one point coming from the washed-out result against Bangladesh. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan remain winless in home Champions Trophy after washed-out Bangladesh tie

Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott says that no team will take Afghanistan lightly in future. The comments come after Trott's boys beat England in Champions Trophy on Feb 26 in Lahore. With the loss, England were sent packing home while Afghanistan still have a shot at the semis.
"What happened in the World Cup, T20 World Cup, and [now], I say this to the players: Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again," he said after the match.&nbsp;
"In the past, perhaps people would have seen the fixture and thought it was a little bit easier than playing a historic Test nation."
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-fakhar-zaman-retirement-news-here-what-pak-batter-said-about-retiring-8761155" aria-label="Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said">Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said</a>
"But in this format, in these conditions, I don't see that. I see every game that we play is going to be competitive and every game we go into I expect to win. Australia aren't going to take us lightly."
"Since I've been coach, we've played against Australia three times and we've been in the game each of those games. I'll tell the players to enjoy tonight. I'm going to make sure when they wake up tomorrow, they're ready for Australia immediately. The focus is on Australia. That's how the players are going to be and that's what I'll tell the fans," added Trott.
Afghanistan next play against Australia which is a do or die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B.
In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match and that too by a huge margin.&nbsp;
In case Australia win then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Afghanistan next play against Australia which is a do or die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Cricket Sports

Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott says that no team will take Afghanistan lightly in future. The comments come after Trott's boys beat England in Champions Trophy on Feb 26 in Lahore. With the loss, England were sent packing home while Afghanistan still have a shot at the semis. "What happened in the World Cup, T20 World Cup, and [now], I say this to the players: Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again," he said after the match. "In the past, perhaps people would have seen the fixture and thought it was a little bit easier than playing a historic Test nation." Also Read: Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said "But in this format, in these conditions, I don't see that. I see every game that we play is going to be competitive and every game we go into I expect to win. Australia aren't going to take us lightly." "Since I've been coach, we've played against Australia three times and we've been in the game each of those games. I'll tell the players to enjoy tonight. I'm going to make sure when they wake up tomorrow, they're ready for Australia immediately. The focus is on Australia. That's how the players are going to be and that's what I'll tell the fans," added Trott. Afghanistan next play against Australia which is a do or die game for both teams. Australia are currently at three points from two games while Afghanistan have two. Whichever team wins the match will become the first one to enter semis from Group B. In case Afghanistan wins, Australia will have to hope for South Africa's loss against England in their last group stage match and that too by a huge margin. In case Australia win then South Africa will also qualify for the semis with their three points while Afghanistan will join England in going home.

Champions Trophy: Coach Jonathan Trott confident 'Afghanistan's never going to be taken lightly ever again' after England win

India captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma" rel="dofollow">Rohit Sharma</a> skipped Wednesday&rsquo;s training at the ICC Academy facility in Dubai, and his deputy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubman-gill" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill</a> was nowhere to be seen during the scheduled three-hour practice session under the lights, per the latest reports. While Rohit is nursing a hamstring injury he suffered during India&rsquo;s marquee clash against Pakistan, Gill was unwell, thus missing India&rsquo;s first training session ahead of the New Zealand tie.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7n80f2u-t7sy1ghs-z9fg0ruh">
📸📸 Prepping 🆙 for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> 👌👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/YpL0V6aCKw">pic.twitter.com/YpL0V6aCKw</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1895052574371520982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Against Pakistan in India&rsquo;s second league match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which the Men in Blue won by six wickets, Rohit injured his hamstring with the team doctors addressing it briefly during Pakistan's innings. He returned to batting during India&rsquo;s chase, scoring 20 off 15 balls, including three fours and a six. Besides, his opening partner Gill was on song against the arch-rivals, hitting a crucial fifty.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-ravi-shastris-advice-for-drowning-england-after-afghanistan-bashing-8761218" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri&rsquo;s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing</a>
Per Cricbuzz, Rohit was present at the venue but just as an onlooker, observing the batters go hard in an intense training session. The report further suggests that Rohit might consider giving the Kiwi game a miss on precautionary grounds to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of crucial knockout games.&nbsp;
With India and New Zealand already qualified for the Champions Trophy semis, with the hosts and defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh knocked out of the home event, the two teams can afford to rest their key players ahead of their respective semis ties.
<h2>Changes in batting order</h2>
Should Rohit decide against playing the New Zealand match, the management will have to bring in his replacement, and considering the selected 15 had not more than three designated openers, KL Rahul will open with Gill.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-starc-reveals-what-led-to-his-absence-from-australias-champions-trophy-squad-8760534" rel="dofollow">Starc reveals what led to his absence from Australia&rsquo;s Champions Trophy squad</a>
With Rahul returning to the top order, he leaves a space vacant in the middle, which the gloveman Rishabh Pant will fill in, playing his maiden Champions Trophy match.&nbsp;
Gill and Rahul will likely open, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant comprising the middle order, while Hardik Pandya and the two left-arm all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will take care of the lower middle order.&nbsp;
India could also rest ace seamer Mohammad Shami, who picked a five-for in the side&rsquo;s tournament opener against Bangladesh but was wicketless against Pakistan in the next game.&nbsp;
The team management could field two rookie seamers, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana, sharing the new ball, with Pandya coming in as a first change. Frontline spinner Kuldeep Yadav is expected to retain his place.&nbsp;
India will face New Zealand this Sunday (Mar 2) in Dubai.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Rohit could miss New Zealand's Champions Trophy tie on precautionary grounds to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of crucial knockout games.

India captain Rohit Sharma skipped Wednesday’s training at the ICC Academy facility in Dubai, and his deputy Shubman Gill was nowhere to be seen during the scheduled three-hour practice session under the lights, per the latest reports. While Rohit is nursing a hamstring injury he suffered during India’s marquee clash against Pakistan, Gill was unwell, thus missing India’s first training session ahead of the New Zealand tie. 📸📸 Prepping 🆙 for #NZvIND 👌👌#TeamIndia | #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/YpL0V6aCKw — BCCI (@BCCI) February 27, 2025 Against Pakistan in India’s second league match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which the Men in Blue won by six wickets, Rohit injured his hamstring with the team doctors addressing it briefly during Pakistan's innings. He returned to batting during India’s chase, scoring 20 off 15 balls, including three fours and a six. Besides, his opening partner Gill was on song against the arch-rivals, hitting a crucial fifty. Also read | Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri’s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing Per Cricbuzz, Rohit was present at the venue but just as an onlooker, observing the batters go hard in an intense training session. The report further suggests that Rohit might consider giving the Kiwi game a miss on precautionary grounds to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of crucial knockout games. With India and New Zealand already qualified for the Champions Trophy semis, with the hosts and defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh knocked out of the home event, the two teams can afford to rest their key players ahead of their respective semis ties. Changes in batting order Should Rohit decide against playing the New Zealand match, the management will have to bring in his replacement, and considering the selected 15 had not more than three designated openers, KL Rahul will open with Gill. Also read | Starc reveals what led to his absence from Australia’s Champions Trophy squad With Rahul returning to the top order, he leaves a space vacant in the middle, which the gloveman Rishabh Pant will fill in, playing his maiden Champions Trophy match. Gill and Rahul will likely open, with Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant comprising the middle order, while Hardik Pandya and the two left-arm all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel will take care of the lower middle order. India could also rest ace seamer Mohammad Shami, who picked a five-for in the side’s tournament opener against Bangladesh but was wicketless against Pakistan in the next game. The team management could field two rookie seamers, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana, sharing the new ball, with Pandya coming in as a first change. Frontline spinner Kuldeep Yadav is expected to retain his place. India will face New Zealand this Sunday (Mar 2) in Dubai. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Rohit doubtful for New Zealand match; unwell Gill misses training

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">England&rsquo;s Champions Trophy 2025 hopes came down crashing</a> in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) after Afghanistan shocked them for the second time in a 50-over ICC event by eight runs. The successive loss in their league stage meant England were knocked out of the tournament, leaving three teams from Group B fighting for the remaining two spots in the semis. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has some advice for the English Team.
England&rsquo;s lead-up to the eight-team tournament was as horrible as their temperament and plans. They toured India for eight white-ball games (5 T20Is and 3 ODIs), losing seven.&nbsp;
Though <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-drops-hint-on-captaincy-future-after-afghanistan-shocker-in-champions-trophy-says-all-possibilities-to-be-considered-8760313" rel="dofollow">England captain Jos Buttler</a> and a few players sounded optimistic about the team&rsquo;s turnaround in performances and results, nothing helped them in the first showpiece event of the year.
England began the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> with a five-wicket loss at the hands of Australia, thanks to a match-winning hundred by Aussie gloveman Josh Inglis (in the chase), and against Afghanistan, they fell shy of the target by just eight runs.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-who-qualifies-for-semis-from-group-b-does-afghanistan-have-a-chance-8761028" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance?</a>
Down by injuries to several first-team players, including rookie all-rounder Jacob Bethell and seamer Brydon Carse, England were reported to have not trained enough during the India ODIs, facing a lot of social media flak, with even former cricketers lamenting this practice.
Taking to his social media handle (X), Shastri first congratulated Afghanistan for a massive win in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance before advising England to play sub-continent cricket seriously without making any excuses.
&ldquo;Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025,&rdquo; he wrote on X.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7n2p209-vzq64cru-dhw67by4">
Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFGvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFGvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy2025</a> <a href="https://t.co/6dUYlzAVc5">pic.twitter.com/6dUYlzAVc5</a>
&mdash; Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1894803309082378313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Sachin lauds Afghanistan&rsquo;s victory</h2>
On the other hand, veteran batter Sachin Tendulkar was among the countless ex-cricketers who wished Afghanistan for this feat on his social media.&nbsp;
Taking to X, Sachin wrote that Afghanistan beating any top-ranked team across formats shouldn&rsquo;t be considered or looked at as an upset.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Afghanistan&rsquo;s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can&rsquo;t term their wins as upsets anymore, they&rsquo;ve made this a habit now.&nbsp;
"A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzai, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan.
Well played!&nbsp;
#AFGvENG&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7n2oklv-hk1tsy5j-t51uoo4a">
Afghanistan&rsquo;s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can&rsquo;t term their wins as upsets anymore, they&rsquo;ve made this a habit now. A superb century by <a href="https://twitter.com/IZadran18?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IZadran18</a> and wonderful five-for by <a href="https://twitter.com/AzmatOmarzay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AzmatOmarzay</a>, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/J1MVULDtKC">pic.twitter.com/J1MVULDtKC</a>
&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1894819993638052320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
Meanwhile, Afghanistan&rsquo;s win over England puts them on the brink of a semis qualification, for which they must beat the defending world champions Australia in their last league match.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Though Buttler and a few English players sounded optimistic about the team’s turnarounds in performances and results in the Champions Trophy, nothing helped them.

England’s Champions Trophy 2025 hopes came down crashing in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) after Afghanistan shocked them for the second time in a 50-over ICC event by eight runs. The successive loss in their league stage meant England were knocked out of the tournament, leaving three teams from Group B fighting for the remaining two spots in the semis. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has some advice for the English Team. England’s lead-up to the eight-team tournament was as horrible as their temperament and plans. They toured India for eight white-ball games (5 T20Is and 3 ODIs), losing seven. Though England captain Jos Buttler and a few players sounded optimistic about the team’s turnaround in performances and results, nothing helped them in the first showpiece event of the year. England began the Champions Trophy with a five-wicket loss at the hands of Australia, thanks to a match-winning hundred by Aussie gloveman Josh Inglis (in the chase), and against Afghanistan, they fell shy of the target by just eight runs. Also read | Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance? Down by injuries to several first-team players, including rookie all-rounder Jacob Bethell and seamer Brydon Carse, England were reported to have not trained enough during the India ODIs, facing a lot of social media flak, with even former cricketers lamenting this practice. Taking to his social media handle (X), Shastri first congratulated Afghanistan for a massive win in their maiden Champions Trophy appearance before advising England to play sub-continent cricket seriously without making any excuses. “Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025,” he wrote on X. Afghanistan. You guys rock. Kammaaal Kaardi. For England. Take playing in the Subcontinent seriously with no excuses. Only then you will be recognised as a Team that can TRAVEL #AFGvENG #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/6dUYlzAVc5 — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) February 26, 2025 Sachin lauds Afghanistan’s victory On the other hand, veteran batter Sachin Tendulkar was among the countless ex-cricketers who wished Afghanistan for this feat on his social media. Taking to X, Sachin wrote that Afghanistan beating any top-ranked team across formats shouldn’t be considered or looked at as an upset. “Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets anymore, they’ve made this a habit now. "A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzai, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan. Well played! #AFGvENG” Afghanistan’s steady and consistent rise in international cricket has been inspiring! You can’t term their wins as upsets anymore, they’ve made this a habit now. A superb century by @IZadran18 and wonderful five-for by @AzmatOmarzay, sealed another memorable win for Afghanistan.… pic.twitter.com/J1MVULDtKC — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) February 26, 2025 Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s win over England puts them on the brink of a semis qualification, for which they must beat the defending world champions Australia in their last league match. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy: Ravi Shastri’s advice for drowning England after Afghanistan bashing

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has refuted retirement rumours after the team's dismal performance in the Champions Trophy. The hosts were knocked out of the tournament after two consecutive losses in the first two group-stage matches against New Zealand and India.
Zaman played only one game in the tournament, against New Zealand, during which he got injured in the first over of the match and left the field immediately. He did return to bat but was not his usual self as he laboured to a 41-ball 24. Pakistan lost the match by 60 runs.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-who-qualifies-for-semis-from-group-b-does-afghanistan-have-a-chance-8761028">Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance?</a>
"I heard about this [retirement rumours] a lot and even my friends messaged me about it, but there's nothing to it," Fakhar said while talking to PCB Digital. "The ODI format is my favourite format. Yes with my thyroid, there was a thing that I could take more time getting back into it. But I want to play T20s, ODIs, even Tests again. As far as my comeback is concerned, I spoke to the doctor and I can start playing cricket again within the month."
"The doctor has advised me that I can start training again in three weeks. So I think I should be back to playing cricket in a month's time."
Fakhar had come to the side as a replacement to Saim Ayub but Imam ul Haq was eventually the player who went on to play the game against India. Imam, however, could manage only 10 runs before being run out on a direct throw by Axar Patel.
Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed, meanwhile, has blamed 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in the Champions Trophy on Feb 23 in Dubai.
"When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

The hosts were knocked out of the tournament after two consecutive losses in the first two group stage matches against New Zealand and India. Cricket Sports

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has refuted retirement rumours after the team's dismal performance in the Champions Trophy. The hosts were knocked out of the tournament after two consecutive losses in the first two group-stage matches against New Zealand and India. Zaman played only one game in the tournament, against New Zealand, during which he got injured in the first over of the match and left the field immediately. He did return to bat but was not his usual self as he laboured to a 41-ball 24. Pakistan lost the match by 60 runs. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025 - Who qualifies for semis from Group B? Does Afghanistan have a chance? "I heard about this [retirement rumours] a lot and even my friends messaged me about it, but there's nothing to it," Fakhar said while talking to PCB Digital. "The ODI format is my favourite format. Yes with my thyroid, there was a thing that I could take more time getting back into it. But I want to play T20s, ODIs, even Tests again. As far as my comeback is concerned, I spoke to the doctor and I can start playing cricket again within the month." "The doctor has advised me that I can start training again in three weeks. So I think I should be back to playing cricket in a month's time." Fakhar had come to the side as a replacement to Saim Ayub but Imam ul Haq was eventually the player who went on to play the game against India. Imam, however, could manage only 10 runs before being run out on a direct throw by Axar Patel. Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed, meanwhile, has blamed 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in the Champions Trophy on Feb 23 in Dubai. "When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.

Champions Trophy: Fakhar Zaman retiring? Here's what Pak opener said

While the two teams from Group A &ndash; India and New Zealand have qualified for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025</a> semi-finals, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in the other group, with plenty happening since Wednesday's thriller between Afghanistan and England in Lahore. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">England is out of the semis race</a>, leaving three teams (Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan) fighting for the two positions in the final four. So, who makes it through? Can Afghanistan realise their dream, or would the Proteas and Aussies advance?
<h2>Group B scenarios</h2>
Afghanistan's win over England increases their chances of reaching the Champions Trophy semis in their maiden appearance but also leaves doors open for Australia and South Africa to cruise ahead.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-eng-dressing-room-erupts-in-joy-after-afghanistan-win-first-champions-trophy-match-against-england-watch-8760685" rel="dofollow">Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match</a>
Meanwhile, all four teams have played two games each, with Proteas and Aussies sitting at the top with three points each besides their names, having won one and attaining one point from their washed-out tie earlier. Afghanistan is third on the list with one win and a loss in two matches, with England knocked out from the semis race after going down in their two successive games.
<h3>How can Australia and South Africa qualify?</h3>
Australia face Afghanistan in their final league game on Friday (Feb 28) in Lahore, and a win there would confirm their qualification in the last four. On the other hand, the Proteas' game against England will also be crucial to their chances.&nbsp;
Should South Africa beat them in Karachi on Saturday (Mar 1), they will join Australia from Group B in the semis. However, the outcomes of their final league matches will determine their positions on the points table.
Considering another case scenario, where Australia beat Afghanistan and England upset the Proteas, the Aussies would end the league games with five points, while South Africa would have three.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-drops-hint-on-captaincy-future-after-afghanistan-shocker-in-champions-trophy-says-all-possibilities-to-be-considered-8760313" rel="dofollow">England skipper Jos Buttler admits captaincy is at stake after Afghanistan shocker</a>
<h3>How can Afghanistan qualify for Champions Trophy semis?</h3>
Afghanistan has been on a rampage since the ODI World Cup in India, where they beat three former world champions, including England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, in their group stage, narrowly missing out on the semis spot.&nbsp;
Next year, during the T20 World Cup in the Americas, they stunned the world with comprehensive wins over New Zealand and Australia in the group games, qualifying for their maiden semis in the tournament. South Africa crushed them in a one-sided contest in the semi-final.
In the 2025 Champions Trophy, they lost their tournament opener to South Africa by 105 runs, but a win over England has kept their hopes alive. Though still low on NRR, beating the defending world champions Australia in their last league match will seal their ticket for the semis, creating history.
However, should they lose, they&rsquo;d be out of the tournament.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Only India and New Zealand from Group A have qualified for the Champions Trophy semis thus far, with the fight for the remaining two spots continuing in Group B.

While the two teams from Group A – India and New Zealand have qualified for the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals, the fight for the remaining two spots continues in the other group, with plenty happening since Wednesday's thriller between Afghanistan and England in Lahore. England is out of the semis race, leaving three teams (Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan) fighting for the two positions in the final four. So, who makes it through? Can Afghanistan realise their dream, or would the Proteas and Aussies advance? Group B scenarios Afghanistan's win over England increases their chances of reaching the Champions Trophy semis in their maiden appearance but also leaves doors open for Australia and South Africa to cruise ahead. Also read | Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match Meanwhile, all four teams have played two games each, with Proteas and Aussies sitting at the top with three points each besides their names, having won one and attaining one point from their washed-out tie earlier. Afghanistan is third on the list with one win and a loss in two matches, with England knocked out from the semis race after going down in their two successive games. How can Australia and South Africa qualify? Australia face Afghanistan in their final league game on Friday (Feb 28) in Lahore, and a win there would confirm their qualification in the last four. On the other hand, the Proteas' game against England will also be crucial to their chances. Should South Africa beat them in Karachi on Saturday (Mar 1), they will join Australia from Group B in the semis. However, the outcomes of their final league matches will determine their positions on the points table. Considering another case scenario, where Australia beat Afghanistan and England upset the Proteas, the Aussies would end the league games with five points, while South Africa would have three. Also read | England skipper Jos Buttler admits captaincy is at stake after Afghanistan shocker How can Afghanistan qualify for Champions Trophy semis? Afghanistan has been on a rampage since the ODI World Cup in India, where they beat three former world champions, including England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, in their group stage, narrowly missing out on the semis spot. Next year, during the T20 World Cup in the Americas, they stunned the world with comprehensive wins over New Zealand and Australia in the group games, qualifying for their maiden semis in the tournament. South Africa crushed them in a one-sided contest in the semi-final. In the 2025 Champions Trophy, they lost their tournament opener to South Africa by 105 runs, but a win over England has kept their hopes alive. Though still low on NRR, beating the defending world champions Australia in their last league match will seal their ticket for the semis, creating history. However, should they lose, they’d be out of the tournament. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Who will qualify for semis from Group B? Do Afghanistan stand a chance?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">Afghanistan beating England to win its maiden ICC Champions Trophy match</a> on Wednesday (Feb 26) in Lahore was a moment they will cherish forever. Although they had already beaten them in an ODI World Cup game in Delhi two years ago, doing it against the former champions in their first-ever <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a> speaks volumes of their rise in international cricket. This win, however, has put them on the brink of a semis spot in the eight-team tournament. A win over Australia would do that.
The cricket world, barring England, celebrated Afghanistan&rsquo;s win, and why shouldn&rsquo;t they; the way they played throughout the game, keeping their nerves and belief intact to win a thriller, is appraisable.&nbsp;
The moment Afghanistan&rsquo;s most valuable ODI cricketer - Azmatullah Omarzai, picked his fifth and innings&rsquo; final wicket by removing England spinner Adil Rashid, caught at the deep long-off in the final over, the dressing room, crowd and millions watching back home erupted in joy.
<h3>Watch the video &ndash;</h3>
<blockquote class="instagram-media publive-iframes-block publive-Instagram-block" contenteditable="false" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGi_E58tIIW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7mxnkzl-fmjxt8ck-blpc41pf">
<div style="padding: 16px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGi_E58tIIW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewBox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div>
<div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div>
<div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div>
</a>
<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGi_E58tIIW/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<h2>Omarzai and Zadran, the heroes!</h2>
Omarzai enjoyed batting and bowling at the Gaddafi Stadium (against England), scoring 41 off 31 balls, including hitting three sixes, and later returning with match-winning figures of five for 58, helping Afghanistan knock England out of the tournament.&nbsp;
However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistans-ibrahim-zadran-scores-highest-individual-score-scripts-two-more-records-8759245" rel="dofollow">Ibrahim Zadran was another hero from their camp</a> who had England on the floor from ball one.&nbsp;
The young opener has made a name in world cricket with his exploits, having already smashed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-will-bat-like-tendulkar-ibrahim-zadran-credits-indian-legend-for-century-against-australia-656191" rel="dofollow">World Cup hundred (against Australia</a> in Mumbai in 2023). After demolishing England bowlers in Lahore, he broke their back and the internet.&nbsp;
After electing to bat first, Afghanistan lost three wickets inside the Powerplay but didn&rsquo;t let their guard down. Alongside skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, Zadran added 103 for the fourth wicket, completing his fifty before notching up his hundred soon after and breaking loose after that.
Zadran&rsquo;s late blitz (177) saw Afghanistan pile up a massive 325 for seven in the first innings.
England&rsquo;s chase began in the most English manner &ndash; a few fours, a wicket, some more fours and another wicket.
Joe Root was England&rsquo;s best batter on the day, completing his 17th ODI ton (120 off 111 balls), his first in six years, but even that wasn&rsquo;t enough for them to overcome the Afghan scare in ODIs.
England came close to chasing the target, with all-rounder Jamie Overton and seamer Jofra Archer hitting fours late in the chase, but a last-minute twist saw the game turn upside down as Afghanistan clinched the thriller.
Meanwhile, they next face Australia, and should they beat them, Afghanistan will qualify for their maiden Champions Trophy semis.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Opener Zadran and all-rounder Omarzai were instrumental in helping Afghanistan beat England and knocking them out of Champions Trophy 2025.

Afghanistan beating England to win its maiden ICC Champions Trophy match on Wednesday (Feb 26) in Lahore was a moment they will cherish forever. Although they had already beaten them in an ODI World Cup game in Delhi two years ago, doing it against the former champions in their first-ever Champions Trophy speaks volumes of their rise in international cricket. This win, however, has put them on the brink of a semis spot in the eight-team tournament. A win over Australia would do that. The cricket world, barring England, celebrated Afghanistan’s win, and why shouldn’t they; the way they played throughout the game, keeping their nerves and belief intact to win a thriller, is appraisable. The moment Afghanistan’s most valuable ODI cricketer - Azmatullah Omarzai, picked his fifth and innings’ final wicket by removing England spinner Adil Rashid, caught at the deep long-off in the final over, the dressing room, crowd and millions watching back home erupted in joy. Watch the video – View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) Omarzai and Zadran, the heroes! Omarzai enjoyed batting and bowling at the Gaddafi Stadium (against England), scoring 41 off 31 balls, including hitting three sixes, and later returning with match-winning figures of five for 58, helping Afghanistan knock England out of the tournament. However, Ibrahim Zadran was another hero from their camp who had England on the floor from ball one. The young opener has made a name in world cricket with his exploits, having already smashed a World Cup hundred (against Australia in Mumbai in 2023). After demolishing England bowlers in Lahore, he broke their back and the internet. After electing to bat first, Afghanistan lost three wickets inside the Powerplay but didn’t let their guard down. Alongside skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, Zadran added 103 for the fourth wicket, completing his fifty before notching up his hundred soon after and breaking loose after that. Zadran’s late blitz (177) saw Afghanistan pile up a massive 325 for seven in the first innings. England’s chase began in the most English manner – a few fours, a wicket, some more fours and another wicket. Joe Root was England’s best batter on the day, completing his 17th ODI ton (120 off 111 balls), his first in six years, but even that wasn’t enough for them to overcome the Afghan scare in ODIs. England came close to chasing the target, with all-rounder Jamie Overton and seamer Jofra Archer hitting fours late in the chase, but a last-minute twist saw the game turn upside down as Afghanistan clinched the thriller. Meanwhile, they next face Australia, and should they beat them, Afghanistan will qualify for their maiden Champions Trophy semis. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch - Dressing room erupts in joy after Afghanistan win first Champions Trophy match

Ace Australian quick <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mitchell-starc" rel="dofollow">Mitchell Starc</a> has revealed what led to his absence from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">ICC Champions Trophy 2025</a>. Starc was among the Aussie pace trio, including regular captain Pat Cummins and seasoned seamer Josh Hazlewood, who did not feature in the first showpiece event of the year. While Cummins and Hazlewood missed the Champions Trophy due to respective injuries, Starc admitted pain in his ankle (he felt during Sri Lanka Tests) and &lsquo;personal views&rsquo; forced him to pull out of contention.
Speaking for the first time since opting out of the Champions Trophy squad, Starc said, "There's a few different reasons, some personal views, and had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series [against Sri Lanka]."&nbsp;
"So just get that one right, obviously, we've got the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that.
"There's some IPL cricket as well, but my main one top of my mind is that Test final, so get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then ready to go for the Test final,&rdquo; the left-arm quick said while chatting on Willow Talk podcast.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/jos-buttler-drops-hint-on-captaincy-future-after-afghanistan-shocker-in-champions-trophy-says-all-possibilities-to-be-considered-8760313" rel="dofollow">Jos Buttler admits to fear losing England&rsquo;s captaincy after Afghanistan shocker</a>
While he did not elaborate on his (personal) reasons, Starc&rsquo;s absence makes sense for his longevity and fitness.&nbsp;
The ageing left-arm quick was part of the five Tests at home against India, throwing rockets throughout the series while playing the two away Tests against Sri Lanka. Though Cricket Australia (CA) named him in the 15-man squad for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan, Starc chose to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-mitchell-starc-pulls-out-in-another-major-blow-for-australia-steve-smith-to-lead-8712498" rel="dofollow">skip it to reclaim full fitness for the upcoming IPL and the WTC Final</a>.
Besides, had he been picked and playing, Starc would have been travelling to a new city for Australia&rsquo;s scheduled group stage matches and even to Dubai (to face India) should they qualify for the semis.&nbsp;
<h2>Changes in the WTC model? Starc says yes!</h2>
Also, defending the WTC title is something Starc has his eyes on, and even though they have already tasted success the last time and made it to the finals this year, the ace quick feels it (WTC model) needs some tinkering.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Australia missed out on making it to the finals the first time due to slow over-rate penalties, but Starc feels it gained significance when the Aussies qualified for the second one.&nbsp;
"The first one being a new concept, I remember definitely, I was like, what's this all about? It doesn't mean much," he said. "We're trying to win every Test match, every Test series. And then we got close to it, and we missed out, and watching it on TV; we all wanted to be a part of it. So that quickly changed.
"And then the second cycle, we made the final and, obviously, playing India on neutral territory, that was a big occasion for both teams, managed to get the chocolates that time. And now we find ourselves sitting [with] a chance to win it for the second time on the trot.
"I think the format needs some tinkering still. It's a very hard one to fix, I guess when you only play six series that contribute to the point system. You get the same points for home and away wins, it's a percentage-based model. So it's an imperfect system. But I think two really good teams will be facing off in the final,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Starc was part of the five Tests at home against India, throwing rockets throughout the series while playing the two away Tests against Sri Lanka.

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc has revealed what led to his absence from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Starc was among the Aussie pace trio, including regular captain Pat Cummins and seasoned seamer Josh Hazlewood, who did not feature in the first showpiece event of the year. While Cummins and Hazlewood missed the Champions Trophy due to respective injuries, Starc admitted pain in his ankle (he felt during Sri Lanka Tests) and ‘personal views’ forced him to pull out of contention. Speaking for the first time since opting out of the Champions Trophy squad, Starc said, "There's a few different reasons, some personal views, and had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series [against Sri Lanka]." "So just get that one right, obviously, we've got the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that. "There's some IPL cricket as well, but my main one top of my mind is that Test final, so get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then ready to go for the Test final,” the left-arm quick said while chatting on Willow Talk podcast. Also read | Jos Buttler admits to fear losing England’s captaincy after Afghanistan shocker While he did not elaborate on his (personal) reasons, Starc’s absence makes sense for his longevity and fitness. The ageing left-arm quick was part of the five Tests at home against India, throwing rockets throughout the series while playing the two away Tests against Sri Lanka. Though Cricket Australia (CA) named him in the 15-man squad for the eight-team tournament in Pakistan, Starc chose to skip it to reclaim full fitness for the upcoming IPL and the WTC Final. Besides, had he been picked and playing, Starc would have been travelling to a new city for Australia’s scheduled group stage matches and even to Dubai (to face India) should they qualify for the semis. Changes in the WTC model? Starc says yes! Also, defending the WTC title is something Starc has his eyes on, and even though they have already tasted success the last time and made it to the finals this year, the ace quick feels it (WTC model) needs some tinkering. Meanwhile, Australia missed out on making it to the finals the first time due to slow over-rate penalties, but Starc feels it gained significance when the Aussies qualified for the second one. "The first one being a new concept, I remember definitely, I was like, what's this all about? It doesn't mean much," he said. "We're trying to win every Test match, every Test series. And then we got close to it, and we missed out, and watching it on TV; we all wanted to be a part of it. So that quickly changed. "And then the second cycle, we made the final and, obviously, playing India on neutral territory, that was a big occasion for both teams, managed to get the chocolates that time. And now we find ourselves sitting [with] a chance to win it for the second time on the trot. "I think the format needs some tinkering still. It's a very hard one to fix, I guess when you only play six series that contribute to the point system. You get the same points for home and away wins, it's a percentage-based model. So it's an imperfect system. But I think two really good teams will be facing off in the final,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Starc reveals what led to his absence from Australia’s Champions Trophy squad

England captain and veteran batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jos-buttler" rel="dofollow">Jos Buttler</a> addressed the elephant in the room after his side&rsquo;s successive loss in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy</a>, this time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-ibrahims-177-helps-afghanistan-knock-out-england-8759862" rel="dofollow">against Afghanistan by just eight runs</a>. England&rsquo;s second defeat on the trot has knocked them out of the semis race, as they become the third team after hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh to get eliminated from the first showpiece event of the year.
England getting ruled out inside the group stage raises questions over the team&rsquo;s ODI future, which once sat on the pedestal, having won the ODI World Cup six years ago at home. Barring last year&rsquo;s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost to India in the semis, England failed to reach the knockouts in the two 50-over tournaments in the past two years, putting pressure on the management and Butter over their positions in the side.
Buttler faces heat over his leadership role, and after suffering another shocker against Afghanistan at this year&rsquo;s eight-team event, he knows he could face the axe.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-pakistan-is-on-the-bottom-admits-coach-aaqib-javed-after-early-exit-for-hosts-and-defending-champions-8759531" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy: 'Pakistan is at the bottom,' admits coach Aaqib Javed after early exit for hosts and defending champions</a>
Reflecting on the same after the game in Lahore, the English captain said, "It's tough to say; stood here right now, and I don't want to make any sort of emotional statements."&nbsp;
"But I think it's fair to say that you've got to consider all possibilities.
"I've enjoyed it [the captaincy]. I've seen lots of people say it doesn't sit well with me, but I do enjoy it. I enjoy the challenge. Obviously, I don't enjoy losing games of cricket and the results. And of course, when they're not going well, you do look at yourself in the mirror and say, 'Am I part of the problem or am I part of the solution?' I think that's what I've got to work out,&rdquo; he added in a chat with Sky Sports.
<h2>&lsquo;I enjoy leading&rsquo;</h2>
Buttler is a seasoned campaigner, a trusted team man and a proven leader; however, outcomes sometimes take a toll even on the best of them, so how could Buttler be spared?&nbsp;
Talking about leadership, Buttler admitted enjoying this responsibility but didn&rsquo;t shy away from adding that he needs to take some time off before debating his future as England&rsquo;s white-ball captain.
&ldquo;You [the press] are probably not the first people I'd discuss that with," he said.
&ldquo;I'll take a little bit of time to work out, personally, what I think is right, and, obviously, the guys at the top are in charge, and they'll have their own views as well.
&ldquo;I enjoy leading. Even before, when I wasn't captain, I'd like to think of myself as a leader in the team, but results are tough, and they weigh heavy at times. Of course, you want to be leading a winning team, and we haven't been that for a while now, so obviously that brings some difficult moments,&rdquo; he added.
Meanwhile, England&rsquo;s last league game against South Africa (March 1) might be a dead rubber for them, but could contribute to the Group standings should they beat the Proteas.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Under Jos, England failed to reach the semis in the last two 50-over tournaments, with the English captain admitting to fearing losing the white-ball captaincy.

England captain and veteran batter Jos Buttler addressed the elephant in the room after his side’s successive loss in the ongoing Champions Trophy, this time against Afghanistan by just eight runs. England’s second defeat on the trot has knocked them out of the semis race, as they become the third team after hosts Pakistan and Bangladesh to get eliminated from the first showpiece event of the year. England getting ruled out inside the group stage raises questions over the team’s ODI future, which once sat on the pedestal, having won the ODI World Cup six years ago at home. Barring last year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, where they lost to India in the semis, England failed to reach the knockouts in the two 50-over tournaments in the past two years, putting pressure on the management and Butter over their positions in the side. Buttler faces heat over his leadership role, and after suffering another shocker against Afghanistan at this year’s eight-team event, he knows he could face the axe. Also read | Champions Trophy: 'Pakistan is at the bottom,' admits coach Aaqib Javed after early exit for hosts and defending champions Reflecting on the same after the game in Lahore, the English captain said, "It's tough to say; stood here right now, and I don't want to make any sort of emotional statements." "But I think it's fair to say that you've got to consider all possibilities. "I've enjoyed it [the captaincy]. I've seen lots of people say it doesn't sit well with me, but I do enjoy it. I enjoy the challenge. Obviously, I don't enjoy losing games of cricket and the results. And of course, when they're not going well, you do look at yourself in the mirror and say, 'Am I part of the problem or am I part of the solution?' I think that's what I've got to work out,” he added in a chat with Sky Sports. ‘I enjoy leading’ Buttler is a seasoned campaigner, a trusted team man and a proven leader; however, outcomes sometimes take a toll even on the best of them, so how could Buttler be spared? Talking about leadership, Buttler admitted enjoying this responsibility but didn’t shy away from adding that he needs to take some time off before debating his future as England’s white-ball captain. “You [the press] are probably not the first people I'd discuss that with," he said. “I'll take a little bit of time to work out, personally, what I think is right, and, obviously, the guys at the top are in charge, and they'll have their own views as well. “I enjoy leading. Even before, when I wasn't captain, I'd like to think of myself as a leader in the team, but results are tough, and they weigh heavy at times. Of course, you want to be leading a winning team, and we haven't been that for a while now, so obviously that brings some difficult moments,” he added. Meanwhile, England’s last league game against South Africa (March 1) might be a dead rubber for them, but could contribute to the Group standings should they beat the Proteas. (With inputs from agencies)

England skipper Jos Buttler admits captaincy is at stake after Afghanistan shocker

Afghanistan stunned England with a thrilling 8-run victory in the Champions Trophy on Wednesday (Feb 26), courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran&rsquo;s majestic 177 and Azmatullah Omarzai&rsquo;s brilliant five-wicket haul. The win knocked a lackluster England out of the tournament, leaving them winless after two matches.
England will now face South Africa in their final Group B encounter, while Afghanistan, with two points, must defeat Australia to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive.
Chasing 326, England struggled early as Phil Salt and Jamie Smith fell cheaply, and were reduced to 30 for two. Despite Joe Root&rsquo;s masterful 120 off 111 balls, featuring 11 fours and a six, England faltered at crucial moments. Root built steady partnerships, adding 68 runs with Ben Duckett (38) and 83 with skipper Jos Buttler. However, their dismissals disrupted England&rsquo;s chase, leaving Root to anchor the innings alone.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-clears-australian-spinner-matt-kuhnemanns-bowling-action-8759514">ICC clears Australian spinner Matt Kuhnemann&rsquo;s bowling action</a>
Root&rsquo;s knock was a display of finesse rather than power, maintaining a near-run-a-ball strike rate with inventive strokes, including a reverse sweep off Noor Ahmad and a scooped six off Fazalhaq Farooqi. He reached his 17th ODI century with a single off Rashid Khan but eventually perished while attempting a ramp shot off Omarzai, caught by Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Jamie Overton (32 off 28) fought bravely, adding 54 for the seventh wicket, but his dismissal to Omarzai sealed England&rsquo;s fate. Omarzai&rsquo;s 5/58 proved decisive as England were bowled out for 317 with one ball remaining, marking the end of their campaign.
Earlier, Afghanistan had struggled at 37/3 in the ninth over, but Zadran steadied the innings, forging key partnerships&mdash;a 72-run stand with Omarzai (41 off 31) for the fifth wicket and a 111-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24) for the sixth. Hashmatullah Shahidi also contributed 40 off 67 balls.
Zadran, whose daddy hundred came off 146 balls (12x4, 6x6), had solid support from skipper Hashmathullah Shahidi (40, 67b, 3x4), with whom he raised 103 runs for the fourth wicket, and Azmatullah Omarzai (41, 31b) with whom he milked 72 runs for the fifth wicket.
Later, he plundered 111 runs for the sixth wicket with Mohammed Nabi (40, 24b) to put England through the wringer.
Brief scores: Afghanistan: 325/7 in 50 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 177, Hashmatullah Shahidi 40, Azmatullah Omarzai 41, Mohammad Nabi 40; Jofra Archer 3/64, Liam Livingstone 2/28) beat England: 317 all out in 49.5 overs (Joe Root 120, Ben Duckett 38, Jos Buttler 38, Jamie Overton 32; Azmatullah Omarzai 5/58, Mohammad Nabi 2/58).
&nbsp;

Sports, Cricket: Zadran notched up his total off 146 deliveries, while Shahidi struck 40 off 67 balls after Afghanistan were left struggling at 37 for 3 in the ninth over

Afghanistan stunned England with a thrilling 8-run victory in the Champions Trophy on Wednesday (Feb 26), courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran’s majestic 177 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s brilliant five-wicket haul. The win knocked a lackluster England out of the tournament, leaving them winless after two matches. England will now face South Africa in their final Group B encounter, while Afghanistan, with two points, must defeat Australia to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. Chasing 326, England struggled early as Phil Salt and Jamie Smith fell cheaply, and were reduced to 30 for two. Despite Joe Root’s masterful 120 off 111 balls, featuring 11 fours and a six, England faltered at crucial moments. Root built steady partnerships, adding 68 runs with Ben Duckett (38) and 83 with skipper Jos Buttler. However, their dismissals disrupted England’s chase, leaving Root to anchor the innings alone. Also Read: ICC clears Australian spinner Matt Kuhnemann’s bowling action Root’s knock was a display of finesse rather than power, maintaining a near-run-a-ball strike rate with inventive strokes, including a reverse sweep off Noor Ahmad and a scooped six off Fazalhaq Farooqi. He reached his 17th ODI century with a single off Rashid Khan but eventually perished while attempting a ramp shot off Omarzai, caught by Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Jamie Overton (32 off 28) fought bravely, adding 54 for the seventh wicket, but his dismissal to Omarzai sealed England’s fate. Omarzai’s 5/58 proved decisive as England were bowled out for 317 with one ball remaining, marking the end of their campaign. Earlier, Afghanistan had struggled at 37/3 in the ninth over, but Zadran steadied the innings, forging key partnerships—a 72-run stand with Omarzai (41 off 31) for the fifth wicket and a 111-run partnership with Mohammad Nabi (40 off 24) for the sixth. Hashmatullah Shahidi also contributed 40 off 67 balls. Zadran, whose daddy hundred came off 146 balls (12x4, 6x6), had solid support from skipper Hashmathullah Shahidi (40, 67b, 3x4), with whom he raised 103 runs for the fourth wicket, and Azmatullah Omarzai (41, 31b) with whom he milked 72 runs for the fifth wicket. Later, he plundered 111 runs for the sixth wicket with Mohammed Nabi (40, 24b) to put England through the wringer. Brief scores: Afghanistan: 325/7 in 50 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 177, Hashmatullah Shahidi 40, Azmatullah Omarzai 41, Mohammad Nabi 40; Jofra Archer 3/64, Liam Livingstone 2/28) beat England: 317 all out in 49.5 overs (Joe Root 120, Ben Duckett 38, Jos Buttler 38, Jamie Overton 32; Azmatullah Omarzai 5/58, Mohammad Nabi 2/58).

Champions Trophy 2025: Ibrahim's 177 helps Afghanistan show England the door

Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed has put the onus on 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in Champions Trophy on Feb 23. The loss almost closed the door on the hosts chances of making it to the top four before Bangladesh's loss vs New Zealand slammed it shut.
"When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistans-ibrahim-zadran-scores-highest-individual-score-scripts-two-more-records-8759245">Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records</a>
"This Indian team was the most experienced - they have almost 1500 games together. And Pakistan is at the bottom, with less than 400 games together. If you look at players like Babar Azam is the only one who has played more than 100 games. Then there's Mohammad Rizwan (88 ODIs) and then Shaheen Afridi (64 ODIs)."
"The rest of them have less than 30 matches. Tayyab Tahir has played like eight games. Imam-ul-Haq (73 games) was coming back in the team. The main thing is, when nothing works, and when you are talking about more than a game, then the experience counts. There is no doubt," explained a disheartened Pak coach.
In the match against India, Pakistan posted a modest 241 on the scoreboard with Saud Shakeel being the highest scorer at 62. In reply, the Pak bowling attack, especially the pace trio of Afridi, Haris and Naseem looked listless as India chased the total with 45 balls and six wickets left. Virat Kohli went on to score a hundred with a four which was also the winning shot of the match.&nbsp;
From Group A, India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis after winning their first two games, respectively. Pakistan and Bangladesh have been knocked out of the race with both teams set to play a dead-rubber game on Feb 27 in Rawalpindi.

Champions Trophy: The loss almost closed the door on the hosts chances of making it to the top four before Bangladesh's loss vs New Zealand slammed it shut.

Pakistan coach Aaqib Javed has put the onus on 'inexperience' for his team's humiliating loss against India in Champions Trophy on Feb 23. The loss almost closed the door on the hosts chances of making it to the top four before Bangladesh's loss vs New Zealand slammed it shut. "When Pakistan and India are playing, it's not only cricket - it's more than that. You need a lot of experience," Javed said, as reported by cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records "This Indian team was the most experienced - they have almost 1500 games together. And Pakistan is at the bottom, with less than 400 games together. If you look at players like Babar Azam is the only one who has played more than 100 games. Then there's Mohammad Rizwan (88 ODIs) and then Shaheen Afridi (64 ODIs)." "The rest of them have less than 30 matches. Tayyab Tahir has played like eight games. Imam-ul-Haq (73 games) was coming back in the team. The main thing is, when nothing works, and when you are talking about more than a game, then the experience counts. There is no doubt," explained a disheartened Pak coach. In the match against India, Pakistan posted a modest 241 on the scoreboard with Saud Shakeel being the highest scorer at 62. In reply, the Pak bowling attack, especially the pace trio of Afridi, Haris and Naseem looked listless as India chased the total with 45 balls and six wickets left. Virat Kohli went on to score a hundred with a four which was also the winning shot of the match. From Group A, India and New Zealand have qualified for the semis after winning their first two games, respectively. Pakistan and Bangladesh have been knocked out of the race with both teams set to play a dead-rubber game on Feb 27 in Rawalpindi.

Champions Trophy: 'Pakistan is at the bottom,' admits coach Aaqib Javed after early exit for hosts and defending champions

Former Indian cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yograj-singh">Yograj Singh</a>, has taken aim at former Pakistan greats like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wasim-akram">Wasim Akram</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shoaib-akhtar" rel="dofollow">Shoaib Akhtar </a>for their harsh criticism of the national team. He accused them of prioritising commentary and personal financial gains over mentoring the struggling squad. Yograj went a step further, boldly claiming that if given a chance, he could turn around Pakistan cricket in just a year.
His comments come after Pakistan&rsquo;s early exit from the Champions Trophy 2025, where they failed to qualify for the semi-finals following losses to New Zealand and India. Their campaign ended with a crushing defeat against India in Dubai, where Pakistan&rsquo;s batting collapse and a passive approach from captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-rizwan">Mohammad Rizwan</a> led to a total of 241 runs. India chased down the target with ease, thanks to Virat Kohli&rsquo;s century and strong performances from Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-afghanistans-ibrahim-zadran-scores-highest-individual-score-scripts-two-more-records-8759245">Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records</a>
Yograj Singh, visibly frustrated with the ongoing criticism from ex-Pakistan players, lashed out at their approach.
&ldquo;Wasim Akram, a player of such stature, making such degrading remarks? And people around him laughing? They should be ashamed. Shoaib Akhtar, you are comparing Pakistan&rsquo;s players with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli? Instead of sitting in a studio, go back to your country and train young cricketers. I challenge you&mdash;bring Pakistan a World Cup. If you can&rsquo;t, step away,&rdquo; Yograj was quoted saying to SportsNext.
Taking a dig at Shoaib Akhtar, who claimed on live television that Pakistan lacks talent, Yograj dismissed the notion entirely. He stressed that Pakistan cricket needs strong mentorship rather than constant negativity.
&ldquo;Pakistan has plenty of talent. These players just need guidance. Someone helped Wasim, Waqar, and Shoaib become world-class cricketers&mdash;why can&rsquo;t they now help the next generation? If I go there, I will make the team better within a year. You will all remember me for it. Training is about passion, about dedicating your time to the players. I give 12 hours a day to training. That&rsquo;s the commitment needed.&rdquo;
Yograj also criticised the way former Pakistan players publicly scrutinise the team, stating that such harsh words damage morale rather than inspire improvement.
&ldquo;Have you ever seen ex-Indian players attacking their own team like this? No, because it affects the players&rsquo; confidence. Pakistan&rsquo;s players are already struggling; hearing such words from their own legends only pushes them further down. If these ex-players truly care about Pakistan cricket, they should step up and mentor the youth instead of making sensational comments.&rdquo;

Sports, Cricket: His comments come after Pakistan’s exit from the Champions Trophy 2025, where they failed to qualify for the semi-finals following losses to New Zealand and India

Former Indian cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, Yograj Singh, has taken aim at former Pakistan greats like Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar for their harsh criticism of the national team. He accused them of prioritising commentary and personal financial gains over mentoring the struggling squad. Yograj went a step further, boldly claiming that if given a chance, he could turn around Pakistan cricket in just a year. His comments come after Pakistan’s early exit from the Champions Trophy 2025, where they failed to qualify for the semi-finals following losses to New Zealand and India. Their campaign ended with a crushing defeat against India in Dubai, where Pakistan’s batting collapse and a passive approach from captain Mohammad Rizwan led to a total of 241 runs. India chased down the target with ease, thanks to Virat Kohli’s century and strong performances from Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records Yograj Singh, visibly frustrated with the ongoing criticism from ex-Pakistan players, lashed out at their approach. “Wasim Akram, a player of such stature, making such degrading remarks? And people around him laughing? They should be ashamed. Shoaib Akhtar, you are comparing Pakistan’s players with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli? Instead of sitting in a studio, go back to your country and train young cricketers. I challenge you—bring Pakistan a World Cup. If you can’t, step away,” Yograj was quoted saying to SportsNext. Taking a dig at Shoaib Akhtar, who claimed on live television that Pakistan lacks talent, Yograj dismissed the notion entirely. He stressed that Pakistan cricket needs strong mentorship rather than constant negativity. “Pakistan has plenty of talent. These players just need guidance. Someone helped Wasim, Waqar, and Shoaib become world-class cricketers—why can’t they now help the next generation? If I go there, I will make the team better within a year. You will all remember me for it. Training is about passion, about dedicating your time to the players. I give 12 hours a day to training. That’s the commitment needed.” Yograj also criticised the way former Pakistan players publicly scrutinise the team, stating that such harsh words damage morale rather than inspire improvement. “Have you ever seen ex-Indian players attacking their own team like this? No, because it affects the players’ confidence. Pakistan’s players are already struggling; hearing such words from their own legends only pushes them further down. If these ex-players truly care about Pakistan cricket, they should step up and mentor the youth instead of making sensational comments.”

Champions Trophy 2025: Yograj Singh calls out Wasim & Akhtar, says he can transform Pakistan cricket in a year!

Afghanistan opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ibrahim-zadran">Ibrahim Zadran</a> scripted history and broke multiple records in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) against England, becoming the first player from Afghanistan to score a century in the ongoing ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025.&nbsp;
The previous best score was by Rahmat Shah, who scored 90 against South Africa in Afghanistan's first-ever match in the tournament. Zadran&rsquo;s innings helped his team make a strong comeback against the English side after losing three wickets for just 37. Zadran took 106 balls to complete his historic century with the help of three sixes and six fours.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-afghanistan-vs-england-score-today-jofra-archer-creates-history-breaks-james-anderson-this-21-year-old-record-8759151">Champions Trophy, AFG vs ENG: Jofra Archer creates history, breaks James Anderson's THIS 21-year old record</a>
<h2>Breaking records&nbsp;</h2>
During his innings of 177 off 146 balls, Ibrahim also scored the highest individual score in the Champions Trophy. He surpassed England's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ben-duckett">Ben Duckett</a>, who made 165 against Australia in their opening match of the tournament.
Ibrahim Zadran's 177 is also the highest individual score in ODIs, surpassing his own score of 162, which he made against Sri Lanka back in 2022.
Ibrahim Zadran continued his impressive form by scoring his sixth ODI century on Wednesday, moving ahead of Mohammad Shahzad on Afghanistan&rsquo;s list of the most hundreds in ODI history. With this knock, Zadran is now behind Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who leads with eight centuries. 
The young opener has been a consistent performer, maintaining an average of 48.38. His latest century reinforces his status as one of Afghanistan&rsquo;s most dependable batters. As Afghanistan builds its ODI legacy, Zadran&rsquo;s ability to anchor innings and score big runs will be crucial for the team's future success.
Zadran made his debut for the Afghanistan Under-19 team in 2017 and quickly made a name for himself with his impressive batting skills. He was soon promoted to the senior team and made his international debut in 2019.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: During his innings of 177, Ibrahim also scored the highest individual score in the Champions Trophy. He surpassed England's Ben Duckett, who made 165 against Australia

Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran scripted history and broke multiple records in Lahore on Wednesday (Feb 26) against England, becoming the first player from Afghanistan to score a century in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The previous best score was by Rahmat Shah, who scored 90 against South Africa in Afghanistan's first-ever match in the tournament. Zadran’s innings helped his team make a strong comeback against the English side after losing three wickets for just 37. Zadran took 106 balls to complete his historic century with the help of three sixes and six fours. Also Read: Champions Trophy, AFG vs ENG: Jofra Archer creates history, breaks James Anderson's THIS 21-year old record Breaking records During his innings of 177 off 146 balls, Ibrahim also scored the highest individual score in the Champions Trophy. He surpassed England's Ben Duckett, who made 165 against Australia in their opening match of the tournament. Ibrahim Zadran's 177 is also the highest individual score in ODIs, surpassing his own score of 162, which he made against Sri Lanka back in 2022. Ibrahim Zadran continued his impressive form by scoring his sixth ODI century on Wednesday, moving ahead of Mohammad Shahzad on Afghanistan’s list of the most hundreds in ODI history. With this knock, Zadran is now behind Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who leads with eight centuries. The young opener has been a consistent performer, maintaining an average of 48.38. His latest century reinforces his status as one of Afghanistan’s most dependable batters. As Afghanistan builds its ODI legacy, Zadran’s ability to anchor innings and score big runs will be crucial for the team's future success. Zadran made his debut for the Afghanistan Under-19 team in 2017 and quickly made a name for himself with his impressive batting skills. He was soon promoted to the senior team and made his international debut in 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran scores highest individual score, scripts two more records

Jofra Archer created history for England during the Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan on Wednesday (Feb 26). Archer, with his first wicket of the match, completed 50 ODI wickets in 30 games&mdash;the fastest for England. He surpassed England great James Anderson 31-match record to set the new milestone. Anderson had taken his 50th ODI wicket against the West Indies 21 years ago in 2004.
In a do or die Group B match, Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first in Lahore. England, however, rocked the opposition early on as Archer took three wickets inside 10 overs. Afghanistan were 37/3 when Ibrahim Zadran and skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi joined forces.
Also Read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-gavaskar-says-babar-can-be-back-to-scoring-runs-if-pak-batter-makes-this-change-8758180" aria-label="Champions Trophy: Gavaskar says Babar can be back to scoring runs if Pak batter makes THIS change">Champions Trophy: Gavaskar says Babar can be back to scoring runs if Pak batter makes THIS change</a>
The duo added 103 runs for the fourth wicket before England spinner Adil Rashid dismissed Shahidi for a personal score of 40. After that, Azmatullah Omarzai joined Zadran and added 72 runs for the fifth wicket.
Jamie Overton dismissed Omarzai in the 40th over to break the partnership. In between those wickets, Zadran became the first Afghan batter to score a hundred in the ICC Champions Trophy.
More to follow...

He surpassed England great James Anderson 31-match record to set the new milestone. Anderson had taken his 50th ODI wicket against West Indies 21 years ago in 2004.

Jofra Archer created history for England during the Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan on Wednesday (Feb 26). Archer, with his first wicket of the match, completed 50 ODI wickets in 30 games—the fastest for England. He surpassed England great James Anderson 31-match record to set the new milestone. Anderson had taken his 50th ODI wicket against the West Indies 21 years ago in 2004. In a do or die Group B match, Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first in Lahore. England, however, rocked the opposition early on as Archer took three wickets inside 10 overs. Afghanistan were 37/3 when Ibrahim Zadran and skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi joined forces. Also Read: Champions Trophy: Gavaskar says Babar can be back to scoring runs if Pak batter makes THIS change The duo added 103 runs for the fourth wicket before England spinner Adil Rashid dismissed Shahidi for a personal score of 40. After that, Azmatullah Omarzai joined Zadran and added 72 runs for the fifth wicket. Jamie Overton dismissed Omarzai in the 40th over to break the partnership. In between those wickets, Zadran became the first Afghan batter to score a hundred in the ICC Champions Trophy. More to follow...

Champions Trophy, AFG vs ENG: Jofra Archer creates history, breaks James Anderson's THIS 21-year old record

Pak vs Ban, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue:&nbsp;Defending champions and hosts Pakistan will look to end the Champions Tropjhy 2025 campaign on a high note as they face Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). With both teams winless, it will be a perfect contest for either side to restore pride. With pride up for stake in the final group game between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details of the contest.
<h2 class="left">Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="left">Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 &nbsp;match Live Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India.
<h2 class="left">Which stadium will host the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">What time will the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match start?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Thursday (Feb 27) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-over-100-pakistani-policemen-dismissed-for-refusing-duty-8756871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Squads<o:p></o:p></h2>
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.

Sports, Cricket: Defending champions and hosts Pakistan will look to end the Champions Tropjhy 2025 campaign on a high as they face Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27).

Pak vs Ban, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: Defending champions and hosts Pakistan will look to end the Champions Tropjhy 2025 campaign on a high note as they face Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 27). With both teams winless, it will be a perfect contest for either side to restore pride. With pride up for stake in the final group game between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details of the contest. Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India. Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match Live Streaming online on OTT? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Which stadium will host the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. What time will the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match start? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Thursday (Feb 27) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Squads Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.

Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025: Live streaming, match details, squad, and how to watch online

Amid the uproar and calls for the sacking of top Pakistan players including Babar Azam after their early exit from the Champions Trophy, former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has some advice for him. Babar was criticised for a 90-ball 64-run knock against New Zealand in the first match which they lost by 60 runs. In the second match against India, he looked good for 23 laced with five boundaries but the stay made no impact as the defending champions lost by six wickets.
"If you ask me about technique, I'll just say one thing to Babar Azam. Right now, his stance is wide," Gavaskar said while talking to former Pak cricketer Basit Ali on the video streaming platform YouTube.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-one-team-playing-in-a-different-place-says-england-skipper-buttler-in-sly-dig-at-india-schedule-8758119">'One team playing in a different place', says England skipper Buttler in sly dig at India's schedule</a>
"If he reduces the width between his legs (while standing at the crease) then he will get two advantages - He won't be uncomfortable moving front or back. Secondly, when you close the gap, your height increases. You have a better understanding of the bounce, you are more upright and you can tackle the ball better. If he tries to do that, the run-making ability that he had will come back. If he does that, it will not only provide joy to the people of Pakistan but also the entire world," Gavaskar explained.
<h2>Akram calls for complete overhaul</h2>
Disappointed with the team's performance, former Pakistan skipper and legendary pacer Wasim Akram has called for the sacking of the top five Pakistan players.
"Enough is enough. We are losing in white-ball with these players from some couple of years. The time is to take a bold step. What is the bold step?" Akram questioned after the loss against India during a TV appearance on a local channel.
While talking about the top 5 players of the Pakistan team, Akram might be hinting at Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, all of whom failed to perform in the tournament.

Champions Trophy: Babar was criticised for 90-ball 64 vs NZ which they lost by 60 runs. In the match against India, he looked good for 23 laced with five fours. Cricket Sports

Amid the uproar and calls for the sacking of top Pakistan players including Babar Azam after their early exit from the Champions Trophy, former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has some advice for him. Babar was criticised for a 90-ball 64-run knock against New Zealand in the first match which they lost by 60 runs. In the second match against India, he looked good for 23 laced with five boundaries but the stay made no impact as the defending champions lost by six wickets. "If you ask me about technique, I'll just say one thing to Babar Azam. Right now, his stance is wide," Gavaskar said while talking to former Pak cricketer Basit Ali on the video streaming platform YouTube. Also Read: 'One team playing in a different place', says England skipper Buttler in sly dig at India's schedule "If he reduces the width between his legs (while standing at the crease) then he will get two advantages - He won't be uncomfortable moving front or back. Secondly, when you close the gap, your height increases. You have a better understanding of the bounce, you are more upright and you can tackle the ball better. If he tries to do that, the run-making ability that he had will come back. If he does that, it will not only provide joy to the people of Pakistan but also the entire world," Gavaskar explained. Akram calls for complete overhaul Disappointed with the team's performance, former Pakistan skipper and legendary pacer Wasim Akram has called for the sacking of the top five Pakistan players. "Enough is enough. We are losing in white-ball with these players from some couple of years. The time is to take a bold step. What is the bold step?" Akram questioned after the loss against India during a TV appearance on a local channel. While talking about the top 5 players of the Pakistan team, Akram might be hinting at Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, all of whom failed to perform in the tournament.

Champions Trophy: Gavaskar says Babar can be back to scoring runs if Pak batter makes THIS change

England skipper Jos Buttler, in an apparent dig at India's schedule at the Champions Trophy, called the ICC tournament 'unique.' India are playing their matches in Dubai, UAE while the rest of the teams are playing their matches across three venues in Pakistan.
The arrangement was made after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send India to Pakistan due to political tensions between the two countries. The decision (to choose Dubai as India's venue), however, was taken with the consent of all participating countries.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/out-from-champions-trophy-with-ankle-injury-aussie-skipper-pat-cummins-eyes-ipl-comeback-8757961">Out from Champions Trophy with injury, Aussie skipper Pat Cummins eyes IPL comeback</a>
"I think it's a unique tournament already, isn't it, with being hosted here with one team playing in a different place but that's not something I'm sort of worried too much about at the moment. I've got all my focus on preparing well tonight and our game tomorrow,&rdquo; said Buttler during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Afghanistan game on Wednesday (Feb 26).
<h2>England in must-win territory</h2>
England and Afghanistan match result, barring a washout, will send the losing team out of semis contention. If England win the match against Afghanistan and against South Africa afterwards, they'll be through to the semis. In that case, South Africa would have to hope for Australia to lose against Afghanistan by a huge margin, else Australia will be through to the semis.
In case Afghanistan win the match against England, that will send the Jos Buttler-led side home packing and South Africa almost into the semis. Australia, on the other hand, would have to win their game against Afghanistan, else they'd be hoping for England to beat South Africa and then fight over net run rate for a place in the semis.
After the washout of the game between Australia and South Africa, all four teams in Group B remain in contention of making it to the semis. The top two teams will advance to the next round, with India and New Zealand already through from Group A.
Currently, South Africa and Australia are at three points each after two games and have one game each left. England and Afghanistan, on the other hand, have played one game each and face each other on Wednesday (Feb 26).

Champions trophy: The decision to choose Dubai as India's venue for all the matches was taken with the consent of all participating countries. Cricket Sports

England skipper Jos Buttler, in an apparent dig at India's schedule at the Champions Trophy, called the ICC tournament 'unique.' India are playing their matches in Dubai, UAE while the rest of the teams are playing their matches across three venues in Pakistan. The arrangement was made after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send India to Pakistan due to political tensions between the two countries. The decision (to choose Dubai as India's venue), however, was taken with the consent of all participating countries. Also Read: Out from Champions Trophy with injury, Aussie skipper Pat Cummins eyes IPL comeback "I think it's a unique tournament already, isn't it, with being hosted here with one team playing in a different place but that's not something I'm sort of worried too much about at the moment. I've got all my focus on preparing well tonight and our game tomorrow,” said Buttler during the pre-match press conference ahead of the Afghanistan game on Wednesday (Feb 26). England in must-win territory England and Afghanistan match result, barring a washout, will send the losing team out of semis contention. If England win the match against Afghanistan and against South Africa afterwards, they'll be through to the semis. In that case, South Africa would have to hope for Australia to lose against Afghanistan by a huge margin, else Australia will be through to the semis. In case Afghanistan win the match against England, that will send the Jos Buttler-led side home packing and South Africa almost into the semis. Australia, on the other hand, would have to win their game against Afghanistan, else they'd be hoping for England to beat South Africa and then fight over net run rate for a place in the semis. After the washout of the game between Australia and South Africa, all four teams in Group B remain in contention of making it to the semis. The top two teams will advance to the next round, with India and New Zealand already through from Group A. Currently, South Africa and Australia are at three points each after two games and have one game each left. England and Afghanistan, on the other hand, have played one game each and face each other on Wednesday (Feb 26).

Champions Trophy: 'One team playing in a different place', says England skipper Buttler in sly dig at India's schedule

Australia Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins has started to bowl as he begins his rehab for the ankle issue picked up during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India in December 2024-January 2025. The ace bowler, owing to his ankle, had to miss out on Australia's Test tour of Sri Lanka as well as the ongoing Champions Trophy. Cummins now plans to make a comeback in IPL and play in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final in June against South Africa later this year.
"The ankle is all going strong, [have been] able to give it a good rest and then been building up slowly, which you don't get to do when you play lots of cricket," Cummins said in a conversation with cricket news website ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-over-100-pakistani-policemen-dismissed-for-refusing-duty-8756871">Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty</a>
"It's feeling as strong as it has for a fair while. Should be fine [for the IPL], that's the plan. So have a few weeks of bowling, building back up and then hopefully don't have to worry about it for a while."
Talking about the issue, Cummins revealed that he has decided not to have the surgery but to manage the ankle with rehab work.
"It's something that we've opted never to have surgery on or intervene too much, just a lot to rehab," he explained. "Having this break meant that I could get a couple of cortisones and really rehab it well the last couple of weeks."
Cummins is one of the most successful skippers currently in the world. His side won the last WTC title beating India in the final in 2023. Australia then went on to win the ODI World Cup later that year in India and again beat India in the final.
They also reached the semi-final of the T20 World Cup in 2024 and under Cummins, IPL side SunRisers Hyderabad also reached the 2024 edition's final.

The ace bowler and Australian skipper, owing to his ankle, had to miss out on Australia's Test tour of Sri Lanka as well as the ongoing Champions Trophy. Cricket Sports

Australia Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins has started to bowl as he begins his rehab for the ankle issue picked up during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India in December 2024-January 2025. The ace bowler, owing to his ankle, had to miss out on Australia's Test tour of Sri Lanka as well as the ongoing Champions Trophy. Cummins now plans to make a comeback in IPL and play in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final in June against South Africa later this year. "The ankle is all going strong, [have been] able to give it a good rest and then been building up slowly, which you don't get to do when you play lots of cricket," Cummins said in a conversation with cricket news website ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty "It's feeling as strong as it has for a fair while. Should be fine [for the IPL], that's the plan. So have a few weeks of bowling, building back up and then hopefully don't have to worry about it for a while." Talking about the issue, Cummins revealed that he has decided not to have the surgery but to manage the ankle with rehab work. "It's something that we've opted never to have surgery on or intervene too much, just a lot to rehab," he explained. "Having this break meant that I could get a couple of cortisones and really rehab it well the last couple of weeks." Cummins is one of the most successful skippers currently in the world. His side won the last WTC title beating India in the final in 2023. Australia then went on to win the ODI World Cup later that year in India and again beat India in the final. They also reached the semi-final of the T20 World Cup in 2024 and under Cummins, IPL side SunRisers Hyderabad also reached the 2024 edition's final.

Out from Champions Trophy with injury, Aussie skipper Pat Cummins eyes IPL comeback

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting is in awe of Virat Kohli as he continues to impress for Team India in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. The veteran Indian batter scored his 51st ODI hundred on Sunday (Feb 23) as the Men in Blue beat Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025. According to Ponting, Virat is the best 50-over player he has seen after smashing multiple records. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ponting in awe of Virat<o:p></o:p></h2>
"Congratulations to him [Kohli]. He's obviously been a champion player for a long, long time. And particularly, probably in the white-ball formats where he's been an unbelievably good 50-over player," Ponting said while speaking to the ICC Review Podcast. "In fact, I think I'm on record before saying I don't think I've ever seen a better 50-over player than Virat Kohli.<o:p></o:p>
"It's crazy when you think about it, isn't it? Just how good Virat's been over such a long period of time, yet he's still 4,000 runs behind Sachin. I mean, it just goes to show how good Sachin was, but also his longevity in the game,&rdquo; added Ponting.<o:p></o:p>
On Sunday Virat scored his 82nd international ton while also completing 14,000 runs in the ODI format. In ODIs, he already holds the record for most hundreds and is only behind Sachin Tendulkar for most tons at the international level. With at least two matches to go in the Champions Trophy 2025, he is set to become the second-highest ODI run scorer with currently Tendulkar and Sri Lanka&rsquo;s Kumar Sangakkara sitting ahead of him.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-over-100-pakistani-policemen-dismissed-for-refusing-duty-8756871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty</a> 
Virat needs 150 runs to become the second-highest run scorer in ODIs and will be determined to achieve the feat in the Champions Trophy 2025.<o:p></o:p>
The former India skipper will be next in action on Sunday as the Men in Blue take on New Zealand in the final group game. A win for India will see them top the group having already booked their place in the semifinal of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Sports, Cricket: Former India captain Virat Kohli scored his 51st ODI hundred on Sunday (Feb 23) as the Men in Blue beat Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting is in awe of Virat Kohli as he continues to impress for Team India in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. The veteran Indian batter scored his 51st ODI hundred on Sunday (Feb 23) as the Men in Blue beat Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025. According to Ponting, Virat is the best 50-over player he has seen after smashing multiple records. Ponting in awe of Virat "Congratulations to him [Kohli]. He's obviously been a champion player for a long, long time. And particularly, probably in the white-ball formats where he's been an unbelievably good 50-over player," Ponting said while speaking to the ICC Review Podcast. "In fact, I think I'm on record before saying I don't think I've ever seen a better 50-over player than Virat Kohli. "It's crazy when you think about it, isn't it? Just how good Virat's been over such a long period of time, yet he's still 4,000 runs behind Sachin. I mean, it just goes to show how good Sachin was, but also his longevity in the game,” added Ponting. On Sunday Virat scored his 82nd international ton while also completing 14,000 runs in the ODI format. In ODIs, he already holds the record for most hundreds and is only behind Sachin Tendulkar for most tons at the international level. With at least two matches to go in the Champions Trophy 2025, he is set to become the second-highest ODI run scorer with currently Tendulkar and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara sitting ahead of him. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty Virat needs 150 runs to become the second-highest run scorer in ODIs and will be determined to achieve the feat in the Champions Trophy 2025. The former India skipper will be next in action on Sunday as the Men in Blue take on New Zealand in the final group game. A win for India will see them top the group having already booked their place in the semifinal of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Champions Trophy 2025: Ricky Ponting in awe of Virat Kohli, says 'haven't seen a better 50-over player'

Pak vs Ban, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: Pakistan will look to close the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a winning note as they take on Bangladesh in a dead-rubber contest on Thursday (Feb 27). With neither team winning a contest in the Champions Trophy, it will be an opportunity for both to close the campaign on a high. Ahead of the dead-rubber contest between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details.
<h2 class="left">Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="left">Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 &nbsp;match Live Streaming online on OTT?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India.
<h2 class="left">Which stadium will host the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">What time will the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match start?</h2>
The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Thursday (Feb 27) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST.
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">Champions Trophy 2025: &nbsp;Pak vs Ban Head-to-Head Stats</h2>
Overall: Pakistan 34 wins, Bangladesh 5 wins, no results - 0
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">Champions Trophy 2025: &nbsp;Pak vs Ban Pitch Report</h2>
Fast bowlers should get good help at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi as Pakistan and Bangladesh look to make the most of the conditions. The pitch has historically favoured fast bowlers, so it will be interesting to see how it works on the match day. &nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal left">Champions Trophy 2025: &nbsp;Pak vs Ban Weather Report</h2>
After South Africa and Australia contest was washed out with rain there is a good chance it will be the case in Pakistan and Bangladesh match. The weather conditions are not encouraging in the build-up to the contest with rain expected to play a part.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/host-defending-champions-pakistan-out-of-champions-trophy-after-new-zealand-beat-bangladesh-in-rawalpindi-8753319" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India, New Zealand qualify for Champions Trophy semis; Pakistan eliminated</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Squads<o:p></o:p></h2>
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.

Sports, Cricket:  Pakistan will look to close the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a winning note as they take on Bangladesh in a dead-rubber contest on Thursday (Feb 27).

Pak vs Ban, Champions Trophy 2025 Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: Pakistan will look to close the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on a winning note as they take on Bangladesh in a dead-rubber contest on Thursday (Feb 27). With neither team winning a contest in the Champions Trophy, it will be an opportunity for both to close the campaign on a high. Ahead of the dead-rubber contest between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025, here are all the details. Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match on TV? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India. Where to watch the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match Live Streaming online on OTT? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be live-streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Which stadium will host the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. What time will the Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match start? The Pakistan vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 match will start at 2:30 PM IST on Thursday (Feb 27) with the toss taking place at 2:00 PM IST. Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Head-to-Head Stats Overall: Pakistan 34 wins, Bangladesh 5 wins, no results - 0 Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Pitch Report Fast bowlers should get good help at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi as Pakistan and Bangladesh look to make the most of the conditions. The pitch has historically favoured fast bowlers, so it will be interesting to see how it works on the match day. Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Weather Report After South Africa and Australia contest was washed out with rain there is a good chance it will be the case in Pakistan and Bangladesh match. The weather conditions are not encouraging in the build-up to the contest with rain expected to play a part. ALSO READ | India, New Zealand qualify for Champions Trophy semis; Pakistan eliminated Champions Trophy 2025: Pak vs Ban Squads Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Bangladesh: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.

Pak vs Ban Champions Trophy 2025: All you need to know, check Live streaming, head-to-head, stats, pitch report, squad

Former England captain Michael Atherton has taken a dig at Team India after the Men in Blue booked their place in the semifinal of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian team based in Dubai for the Champions Trophy 2025 will play in the last four after winning both their matches coupled with defeats for Bangladesh and Pakistan. However, according to Atherton India have an advantage as they are based in one city and have avoided travelling.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Atherton accuses India of &lsquo;undeniable advantage&rsquo;<o:p></o:p></h2>
"About the advantage India have in playing in Dubai, only in Dubai, which seems to me to be a hard-to-quantify advantage but an undeniable advantage...They are playing at just one venue. They do not have to travel between venues or, you know, between countries as a lot of other teams have to do," Atherton said.<o:p></o:p>
The comment comes after India booked their place in the semifinal of the Champions Trophy with a game to spare. The Men in Blue are playing under a hybrid model as all their matches are scheduled in Dubai despite Pakistan being the official host of the tournament. The arrangements have allowed India to avoid any travel and to be based entirely in the United Arab Emirates even if they reach the final of the tournament. &nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-over-100-pakistani-policemen-dismissed-for-refusing-duty-8756871" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty</a> 
However, that is not the case for other teams with New Zealand, Bangladesh and Pakistan travelling to the UAE and other cities to play their group-stage matches. According to Atherton, India avoiding travel fatigue is a big factor if they go on to win the Champions Trophy 2025. Despite all Group B teams playing their matches in Pakistan, the team that gets paired with India in the semifinal will have to travel to Dubai, again underlining the travel fatigue factor.<o:p></o:p>
Interestingly, New Zealand will travel to Dubai for the final Group A game on Sunday and return to Pakistan to play in the semifinal. However, if they get paired with India in the Champions Trophy final, they will have to visit UAE for the second time in less than a week due to the complicated nature of the hybrid model.

Sports, Cricket: The Indian team based in Dubai for the Champions Trophy 2025 will play in the last four after winning both their matches against Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Former England captain Michael Atherton has taken a dig at Team India after the Men in Blue booked their place in the semifinal of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025. The Indian team based in Dubai for the Champions Trophy 2025 will play in the last four after winning both their matches coupled with defeats for Bangladesh and Pakistan. However, according to Atherton India have an advantage as they are based in one city and have avoided travelling. Atherton accuses India of ‘undeniable advantage’ "About the advantage India have in playing in Dubai, only in Dubai, which seems to me to be a hard-to-quantify advantage but an undeniable advantage...They are playing at just one venue. They do not have to travel between venues or, you know, between countries as a lot of other teams have to do," Atherton said. The comment comes after India booked their place in the semifinal of the Champions Trophy with a game to spare. The Men in Blue are playing under a hybrid model as all their matches are scheduled in Dubai despite Pakistan being the official host of the tournament. The arrangements have allowed India to avoid any travel and to be based entirely in the United Arab Emirates even if they reach the final of the tournament. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty However, that is not the case for other teams with New Zealand, Bangladesh and Pakistan travelling to the UAE and other cities to play their group-stage matches. According to Atherton, India avoiding travel fatigue is a big factor if they go on to win the Champions Trophy 2025. Despite all Group B teams playing their matches in Pakistan, the team that gets paired with India in the semifinal will have to travel to Dubai, again underlining the travel fatigue factor. Interestingly, New Zealand will travel to Dubai for the final Group A game on Sunday and return to Pakistan to play in the semifinal. However, if they get paired with India in the Champions Trophy final, they will have to visit UAE for the second time in less than a week due to the complicated nature of the hybrid model.

India have 'undeniable advantage' in Champions Trophy 2025, accuses former England captain

In a dramatic turn of events, over 100 Pakistan's Punjab Police personnel have been dismissed for refusing to perform their assigned security duties during the ongoing ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025, officials confirmed on Tuesday (Feb 25).
The sacked officers, belonging to various police wings, were reportedly tasked with securing team movements between Qaddafi Stadium in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lahore">Lahore</a> and designated hotels. However, many were repeatedly absent, while others outright refused to take up their responsibilities, prompting swift action from Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab, Usman Anwar.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/1992-world-cup-winning-captain-imran-khan-expresses-sadness-over-pakistans-loss-to-india-says-his-sister-8756785">1992 World Cup winning captain Imran Khan expresses sadness over Pakistan&rsquo;s loss to India, says his sister</a>
&ldquo;There is no room for negligence when it comes to the security of international events,&rdquo; Anwar stated, emphasising the importance of maintaining a secure environment.
Although no official reason has been provided for their refusal, local reports suggest that long duty hours left officers feeling overburdened.
Meanwhile, despite Pakistan&rsquo;s early exit from the tournament following defeats to New Zealand and India, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar dismissed concerns about security threats. "Pakistan is hosting the ICC Champions Trophy peacefully and successfully. Our grounds are packed, fans from around the world are celebrating, and cricket is thriving,&rdquo; he assured.
<h2>'PCB disappointed and angry after Pakistan's early exit'</h2>
There is a lot of disappointment and anger in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket-board">Pakistan Cricket Board</a> (PCB) over the early exit of the national side from the Champions Trophy, but it has decided to remain silent on team affairs until the end of the tournament on March 9.
A source close to the PCB said the officials were hurt at the way the team performed in the tournament, especially against arch-rivals India.&nbsp;"But, looking at the larger picture, which is the successful hosting of the Champions Trophy and to ensure it brings positive publicity for Pakistan cricket as a host nation, it has been decided to say nothing on the team's performance for now," the source said.
He said internally it has been agreed not to discuss the team, selection, or future plans, as it would only divert attention from the tournament and bring negative headlines for Pakistan cricket.

Cricket, Sports: The officers, belonging to various police wings, were reportedly tasked with securing team movements between Qaddafi Stadium in Lahore and designated hotels

In a dramatic turn of events, over 100 Pakistan's Punjab Police personnel have been dismissed for refusing to perform their assigned security duties during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, officials confirmed on Tuesday (Feb 25). The sacked officers, belonging to various police wings, were reportedly tasked with securing team movements between Qaddafi Stadium in Lahore and designated hotels. However, many were repeatedly absent, while others outright refused to take up their responsibilities, prompting swift action from Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab, Usman Anwar. Also Read: 1992 World Cup winning captain Imran Khan expresses sadness over Pakistan’s loss to India, says his sister “There is no room for negligence when it comes to the security of international events,” Anwar stated, emphasising the importance of maintaining a secure environment. Although no official reason has been provided for their refusal, local reports suggest that long duty hours left officers feeling overburdened. Meanwhile, despite Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament following defeats to New Zealand and India, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar dismissed concerns about security threats. "Pakistan is hosting the ICC Champions Trophy peacefully and successfully. Our grounds are packed, fans from around the world are celebrating, and cricket is thriving,” he assured. 'PCB disappointed and angry after Pakistan's early exit' There is a lot of disappointment and anger in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over the early exit of the national side from the Champions Trophy, but it has decided to remain silent on team affairs until the end of the tournament on March 9. A source close to the PCB said the officials were hurt at the way the team performed in the tournament, especially against arch-rivals India. "But, looking at the larger picture, which is the successful hosting of the Champions Trophy and to ensure it brings positive publicity for Pakistan cricket as a host nation, it has been decided to say nothing on the team's performance for now," the source said. He said internally it has been agreed not to discuss the team, selection, or future plans, as it would only divert attention from the tournament and bring negative headlines for Pakistan cricket.

Champions Trophy 2025: Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty

Pakistan's former prime minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/imran-khan">Imran Khan</a>, currently jailed, is reportedly disappointed with his country's cricket team&rsquo;s performance in the ongoing Champions Trophy, according to his sister, Aleema Khan.
Pakistan, the host nation, became the first team to be eliminated from the eight-team tournament following heavy defeats to New Zealand in Karachi and India in Dubai.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-when-he-scores-its-against-zimbabwe-former-pak-spinner-slams-babars-batting-intent-against-big-teams-8756582">Champions Trophy 2025: 'When he scores, its against Zimbabwe...': Former Pak spinner slams Babar's batting intent against big teams</a>
Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after meeting Imran, Aleema revealed that the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) founder was deeply saddened by Pakistan&rsquo;s loss to India.
She further stated that the 1992 World Cup-winning captain questioned the credentials of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket-board">Pakistan Cricket Board</a> (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
"Imran said that cricket will eventually suffer when decision-making roles are given to favourites," Aleema added, noting that the cricketer-turned-politician had watched the high-profile match against India.
<h2 data-start="718" data-end="925">'Pakistan's cricket downfall started during ex-PM Imran Khan's tenure'</h2>
Former PCB chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/najam-sethi">Najam Sethi</a> has indirectly blamed ex-PM Imran Khan for Pakistan cricket&rsquo;s decline. In a post on X, Sethi said the nation is rightfully angry after Pakistan&rsquo;s early exit from the Champions Trophy following back-to-back defeats.
He questioned how a team that was once ranked No. 1 in T20s (2018) and Tests (2016) and had won the World Cup (1992) and Champions Trophy (2017) is now being compared to Zimbabwe. According to him, the downfall began in 2019 when Imran Khan&rsquo;s government changed Pakistan&rsquo;s domestic cricket structure, replacing a decades-old system with an unsuitable Australian hybrid model.
Sethi criticised ongoing political interference, inconsistent PCB policies, frequent coaching changes, flawed selection decisions, and internal team conflicts. He blamed management failures, growing player power, and captaincy clashes for Pakistan&rsquo;s poor performances.
Sethi believes Pakistan can recover if the real issues are addressed with integrity and professionalism. He resigned as PCB chairman after Imran Khan became PM in 2018, allowing Ehsan Mani to take over. In 2019, the PCB restructured domestic cricket under Imran&rsquo;s directives. Ramiz Raja was later appointed in 2021 but was replaced by Sethi in 2022 after Imran&rsquo;s government fell.

Cricket, Sports: Pakistan, the host nation, became the first team to be eliminated from the eight-team tournament following defeats to New Zealand in Karachi and India in Dubai

Pakistan's former prime minister, Imran Khan, currently jailed, is reportedly disappointed with his country's cricket team’s performance in the ongoing Champions Trophy, according to his sister, Aleema Khan. Pakistan, the host nation, became the first team to be eliminated from the eight-team tournament following heavy defeats to New Zealand in Karachi and India in Dubai. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'When he scores, its against Zimbabwe...': Former Pak spinner slams Babar's batting intent against big teams Speaking to the media outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after meeting Imran, Aleema revealed that the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) founder was deeply saddened by Pakistan’s loss to India. She further stated that the 1992 World Cup-winning captain questioned the credentials of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi. "Imran said that cricket will eventually suffer when decision-making roles are given to favourites," Aleema added, noting that the cricketer-turned-politician had watched the high-profile match against India. 'Pakistan's cricket downfall started during ex-PM Imran Khan's tenure' Former PCB chairman Najam Sethi has indirectly blamed ex-PM Imran Khan for Pakistan cricket’s decline. In a post on X, Sethi said the nation is rightfully angry after Pakistan’s early exit from the Champions Trophy following back-to-back defeats. He questioned how a team that was once ranked No. 1 in T20s (2018) and Tests (2016) and had won the World Cup (1992) and Champions Trophy (2017) is now being compared to Zimbabwe. According to him, the downfall began in 2019 when Imran Khan’s government changed Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure, replacing a decades-old system with an unsuitable Australian hybrid model. Sethi criticised ongoing political interference, inconsistent PCB policies, frequent coaching changes, flawed selection decisions, and internal team conflicts. He blamed management failures, growing player power, and captaincy clashes for Pakistan’s poor performances. Sethi believes Pakistan can recover if the real issues are addressed with integrity and professionalism. He resigned as PCB chairman after Imran Khan became PM in 2018, allowing Ehsan Mani to take over. In 2019, the PCB restructured domestic cricket under Imran’s directives. Ramiz Raja was later appointed in 2021 but was replaced by Sethi in 2022 after Imran’s government fell.

1992 World Cup winning captain Imran Khan expresses sadness over Pakistan’s loss to India, says his sister

Former Pakistan cricketer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/danish-kaneria">Danish Kaneria</a> has strongly criticised premier batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for their underwhelming performances in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy. He particularly called out Babar for his lack of 'intent' against top-tier teams, noting that he often piles up runs against weaker opposition.
Pakistan endured a disastrous campaign, getting knocked out of their home tournament within five days. Both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/babar-azam">Babar</a> and Rizwan struggled in key matches, with Babar scoring 87 runs (including a half-century) and Rizwan managing just 49 runs in two games. Babar's sluggish 64 off 90 balls against New Zealand while chasing 321 drew sharp criticism, while Rizwan's slow 46 off 77 balls against India contributed to Pakistan&rsquo;s below-par total of 241.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-i-hope-after-this-bangladesh-skipper-shanto-slams-batting-unit-after-early-exit-8756640">Champions Trophy: 'I hope after this...,' Bangladesh skipper Shanto slams batting unit after early exit</a>
"Babar has not been scoring consistently, and when he does, it&rsquo;s usually against smaller teams. There is no real intent in his batting. The team lacks depth, and Rizwan's struggles have compounded the problem," Kaneria was quoted saying to ANI.
<h2>'Fakhar, a strong contender for captaincy'</h2>
Babar has not scored an international century since August 2023, when he hit 151 against Nepal in the Asia Cup. Since then, he has played 24 ODIs, amassing 753 runs at an average of 37.65 with a modest strike rate of 78.68. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-rizwan">Rizwan</a>, despite averaging 53.78 in ODIs since 2024, has also seen a dip in his strike rate to 76.46, well below his career mark of 87. Kaneria argued that this conservative approach has significantly hurt Pakistan cricket.
On the question of leadership, Kaneria believes Rizwan should continue as white-ball captain but pointed out that the PCB prefers captains who act as "yes-men." He speculated that left-handed batter Saud Shakeel might be the next in line for captaincy but warned against overburdening an in-form player.
Kaneria also suggested that if Rizwan steps down, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fakhar-zaman">Fakhar Zaman</a> could be a strong contender for captaincy, calling him a fearless cricketer with the &ldquo;X-factor.&rdquo; He lamented that Fakhar does not receive enough backing because his presence threatens the established order of Babar and Rizwan.
Regarding Pakistan&rsquo;s selection process, Kaneria emphasised the need for a performance-based system where players are given a one-year timeframe to prove themselves. "If they do not deliver, they should be asked to leave. But in Pakistan, selections are often driven by friendships and PR rather than merit. That&rsquo;s why the results are so disappointing," he signed off.

Sports, Cricket: Babar Azam has not scored an international ton since August 2023, when he scored 151 against Nepal in the Asia Cup 2023 in an ODI.

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has strongly criticised premier batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for their underwhelming performances in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy. He particularly called out Babar for his lack of 'intent' against top-tier teams, noting that he often piles up runs against weaker opposition. Pakistan endured a disastrous campaign, getting knocked out of their home tournament within five days. Both Babar and Rizwan struggled in key matches, with Babar scoring 87 runs (including a half-century) and Rizwan managing just 49 runs in two games. Babar's sluggish 64 off 90 balls against New Zealand while chasing 321 drew sharp criticism, while Rizwan's slow 46 off 77 balls against India contributed to Pakistan’s below-par total of 241. Also Read: Champions Trophy: 'I hope after this...,' Bangladesh skipper Shanto slams batting unit after early exit "Babar has not been scoring consistently, and when he does, it’s usually against smaller teams. There is no real intent in his batting. The team lacks depth, and Rizwan's struggles have compounded the problem," Kaneria was quoted saying to ANI. 'Fakhar, a strong contender for captaincy' Babar has not scored an international century since August 2023, when he hit 151 against Nepal in the Asia Cup. Since then, he has played 24 ODIs, amassing 753 runs at an average of 37.65 with a modest strike rate of 78.68. Rizwan, despite averaging 53.78 in ODIs since 2024, has also seen a dip in his strike rate to 76.46, well below his career mark of 87. Kaneria argued that this conservative approach has significantly hurt Pakistan cricket. On the question of leadership, Kaneria believes Rizwan should continue as white-ball captain but pointed out that the PCB prefers captains who act as "yes-men." He speculated that left-handed batter Saud Shakeel might be the next in line for captaincy but warned against overburdening an in-form player. Kaneria also suggested that if Rizwan steps down, Fakhar Zaman could be a strong contender for captaincy, calling him a fearless cricketer with the “X-factor.” He lamented that Fakhar does not receive enough backing because his presence threatens the established order of Babar and Rizwan. Regarding Pakistan’s selection process, Kaneria emphasised the need for a performance-based system where players are given a one-year timeframe to prove themselves. "If they do not deliver, they should be asked to leave. But in Pakistan, selections are often driven by friendships and PR rather than merit. That’s why the results are so disappointing," he signed off.

Champions Trophy 2025: 'When he scores, its against Zimbabwe...': Former Pak spinner slams Babar's batting intent against big teams

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto hopes that the latest setback of an early exit from the Champions Trophy will bring some 'changes' in the batting unit. The statement comes after Bangladesh lost their second match of the ICC tournament on Feb 24 and were knocked out of the race for semis. They lost to New Zealand on Monday and had lost to India in the opening match on Feb 20.
"I have said it a lot of times in the past, but we [have] made the same mistakes over and over again," he said. "We have to focus on how we want to improve our batting. I hope after this tournament, we will make some changes as a batting unit, which will bring improvement in our batting."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-kaif-questions-icc-money-utilised-wisely-by-pakistan-amid-poor-ground-facilities-in-rawalpindi-sa-vs-aus-game-result-updated-points-table-8756161">Kaif questions 'ICC money utilised wisely' by Pakistan amid poor ground facilities in Rawalpindi</a>
The skipper, however, clarified that by changes he doesn't mean chopping or changing of personnel but a change in intent.
"We have to be more responsible for the team when we go out to bat. We cannot keep chopping and changing [personnel]. We have to keep giving our existing resources more opportunities. I think we are taking it lightly. We have to be more responsible," added Shanto.
<h2>New Zealand, India through semis</h2>
Bangladesh had to win their remaining two games, against New Zealand and Pakistan on Feb 27, to have a shot at making it to the final four after losing against India.
The Bangla Tigers, however, failed to do so, and with their loss, hosts and defending champions Pakistan were knocked out of the tournament as well.
The match between Pakistan and Bangladesh on Feb 27 is nothing but a dead-rubber now.
The India vs New Zealand match on March 2 in Dubai, meanwhile, will decide which team will finish on top of Group A and face the second-placed team in Group B in the semi-final.

Champions Trophy: Bangladesh skipper Shanto, however, clarified that by changes he doesn't mean chopping or changing of personnel but a change in intent. Cricket Sports

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto hopes that the latest setback of an early exit from the Champions Trophy will bring some 'changes' in the batting unit. The statement comes after Bangladesh lost their second match of the ICC tournament on Feb 24 and were knocked out of the race for semis. They lost to New Zealand on Monday and had lost to India in the opening match on Feb 20. "I have said it a lot of times in the past, but we [have] made the same mistakes over and over again," he said. "We have to focus on how we want to improve our batting. I hope after this tournament, we will make some changes as a batting unit, which will bring improvement in our batting." Also Read: Kaif questions 'ICC money utilised wisely' by Pakistan amid poor ground facilities in Rawalpindi The skipper, however, clarified that by changes he doesn't mean chopping or changing of personnel but a change in intent. "We have to be more responsible for the team when we go out to bat. We cannot keep chopping and changing [personnel]. We have to keep giving our existing resources more opportunities. I think we are taking it lightly. We have to be more responsible," added Shanto. New Zealand, India through semis Bangladesh had to win their remaining two games, against New Zealand and Pakistan on Feb 27, to have a shot at making it to the final four after losing against India. The Bangla Tigers, however, failed to do so, and with their loss, hosts and defending champions Pakistan were knocked out of the tournament as well. The match between Pakistan and Bangladesh on Feb 27 is nothing but a dead-rubber now. The India vs New Zealand match on March 2 in Dubai, meanwhile, will decide which team will finish on top of Group A and face the second-placed team in Group B in the semi-final.

Champions Trophy: 'I hope after this...,' Bangladesh skipper Shanto slams batting unit after early exit

Pakistan's cricket team continues to face heavy criticism following their early exit from the Champions Trophy, with Indian legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-gavaskar">Sunil Gavaskar</a> stating that they would struggle even against a second-string Indian team.
India, the 2023 ODI World Cup finalists, defeated defending champions Pakistan by six wickets in Dubai, further asserting their dominance in the rivalry. "A B team from India can certainly challenge Pakistan. A C team, I&rsquo;m not too sure, but a B team will be very hard to beat in Pakistan&rsquo;s current form," Gavaskar was quoted saying on Sports Today.
Pakistan, hosting an ICC tournament for the first time since 1996, were eliminated after New Zealand defeated Bangladesh in another Group A match. They remain winless in the tournament. Since their 2017 Champions Trophy victory, Pakistan's performance in major ICC events has declined, finishing fifth in the last two ODI World Cups.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-gill-is-next-big-thing-in-international-cricket-feels-former-sa-batting-great-8756203">Champions Trophy 2025: 'Gill is next big thing in international cricket', feels former SA batting great</a>
Gavaskar expressed surprise at Pakistan&rsquo;s lack of bench strength, given their history of producing naturally gifted players. "Pakistan always had natural talent. They may not have always been technically perfect, but they had an instinctive understanding of bat and ball," he said. Citing the example of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/inzamam-ul-haq" rel="dofollow">Inzamam-ul-Haq</a>, he added, "If you look at his stance, you wouldn&rsquo;t recommend it to a young batter, but his temperament made up for technical shortcomings."
Despite the presence of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and domestic white-ball tournaments, the team has struggled to develop top-tier talent. Gavaskar credited India&rsquo;s depth in white-ball cricket to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a> (IPL). "The IPL has helped India produce so many young stars. Those players then gain experience in domestic cricket and go on to represent India. Pakistan needs to analyse why they no longer have the bench strength they once did."
<h2>India vs Pakistan: A one-sided rivalry?</h2>
Meanhwile, former England captain Michael Atherton believes the once-thrilling India-Pakistan contest has become predictable and one-sided. "It was completely one-sided," he said on the Sky Sports Podcast. "Pakistan&rsquo;s batting looked underpowered, just as it did in their game against New Zealand. They lacked energy and dynamism."
Atherton pointed out that while India-Pakistan matches generate immense hype due to their rarity in bilateral cricket, the results in the past decade have been overwhelmingly in India's favor. "They&rsquo;ve played nine ODIs against each other in the last 10 years, and Pakistan have won only once&mdash;that was the 2017 Champions Trophy final at The Oval," he noted.
Although Pakistan still leads the overall ODI head-to-head (73 wins to India&rsquo;s 58 in 136 matches), Atherton believes they have lost their competitive edge over the past decade.

Cricket, Sports: Pakistan, hosting an ICC tournament for the first time since 1996, were eliminated after New Zealand beat Bangladesh. They remain winless in the tournament so far

Pakistan's cricket team continues to face heavy criticism following their early exit from the Champions Trophy, with Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar stating that they would struggle even against a second-string Indian team. India, the 2023 ODI World Cup finalists, defeated defending champions Pakistan by six wickets in Dubai, further asserting their dominance in the rivalry. "A B team from India can certainly challenge Pakistan. A C team, I’m not too sure, but a B team will be very hard to beat in Pakistan’s current form," Gavaskar was quoted saying on Sports Today. Pakistan, hosting an ICC tournament for the first time since 1996, were eliminated after New Zealand defeated Bangladesh in another Group A match. They remain winless in the tournament. Since their 2017 Champions Trophy victory, Pakistan's performance in major ICC events has declined, finishing fifth in the last two ODI World Cups. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: 'Gill is next big thing in international cricket', feels former SA batting great Gavaskar expressed surprise at Pakistan’s lack of bench strength, given their history of producing naturally gifted players. "Pakistan always had natural talent. They may not have always been technically perfect, but they had an instinctive understanding of bat and ball," he said. Citing the example of Inzamam-ul-Haq, he added, "If you look at his stance, you wouldn’t recommend it to a young batter, but his temperament made up for technical shortcomings." Despite the presence of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and domestic white-ball tournaments, the team has struggled to develop top-tier talent. Gavaskar credited India’s depth in white-ball cricket to the Indian Premier League (IPL). "The IPL has helped India produce so many young stars. Those players then gain experience in domestic cricket and go on to represent India. Pakistan needs to analyse why they no longer have the bench strength they once did." India vs Pakistan: A one-sided rivalry? Meanhwile, former England captain Michael Atherton believes the once-thrilling India-Pakistan contest has become predictable and one-sided. "It was completely one-sided," he said on the Sky Sports Podcast. "Pakistan’s batting looked underpowered, just as it did in their game against New Zealand. They lacked energy and dynamism." Atherton pointed out that while India-Pakistan matches generate immense hype due to their rarity in bilateral cricket, the results in the past decade have been overwhelmingly in India's favor. "They’ve played nine ODIs against each other in the last 10 years, and Pakistan have won only once—that was the 2017 Champions Trophy final at The Oval," he noted. Although Pakistan still leads the overall ODI head-to-head (73 wins to India’s 58 in 136 matches), Atherton believes they have lost their competitive edge over the past decade.

Champions Trophy 2025: 'India's B team can beat this Pakistan squad', says former India opening batter

South African batting legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/hashim-amla">Hashim Amla</a> has heaped praise on India&rsquo;s young opener, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shubhman-gill">Shubman Gill</a>, labelling him as the 'next big thing' in international cricket alongside Rishabh Pant and South Africa&rsquo;s Ryan Rickelton.
Gill, 25, has had a stellar start to his ODI career and was recently named India&rsquo;s vice-captain for the ongoing Champions Trophy. He reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC ODI rankings for batters on the tournament's opening day, a position he first achieved in 2023. The dynamic right-hander started his campaign with a match-winning century against Bangladesh and followed it up with a crucial 46 against Pakistan, guiding India to two successive wins.
"For India, you have Shubman Gill, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant">Rishabh Pant</a> has been around for a while. For South Africa, Ryan Rickelton has been outstanding of late," Amla said. "Every country sees two or three young players rise to prominence every five years, and these names could be the next big stars in international cricket," Amla,&nbsp;currently playing for South Africa Masters in the International Masters League, was quoted saying to PTI.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-aus-vs-sa-match-washed-out-points-shared-8756004">Champions Trophy 2025: AUS vs SA match washed out, points shared</a>
Amla lauded Gill&rsquo;s contributions, particularly his role at the top of the order for India.&nbsp;"He is a brilliant player. The way he has started his ODI career has been exceptional. He has played a crucial role in India's success," Amla said. "Having him alongside Rohit Sharma creates a potent and dangerous opening partnership, and then you have Virat Kohli at No. 3. That&rsquo;s a formidable top order."
Discussing South Africa&rsquo;s prospects in the Champions Trophy, Amla expressed confidence in their batting lineup, particularly their preparation against spin.
"South African batters are well-equipped. The recent tour of Pakistan gave them valuable practice against spin. They&rsquo;ve also had consistent success," he said.
Amla highlighted key players in the Proteas&rsquo; middle order:&nbsp;"You've got Heinrich Klaasen, who has been excellent against spinners. David Miller has been a fantastic finisher, and Aiden Markram is a crucial player in the middle order. Temba Bavuma is solid at the top, and Rickelton has proven himself against spin over the last year and a half."
<h2>'India and SA are strong contenders'&nbsp;</h2>
Amla believes both India and South Africa have strong chances of winning the Champions Trophy.&nbsp;"India has had a fantastic team over the last 15 years, so they obviously have a great chance," he said. "South Africa also looks well-balanced with strong batting and bowling. They have an excellent shot at making the top four and, hopefully, winning the title."
Reflecting on South Africa&rsquo;s recent performances, including their appearances in the T20 World Cup final and the World Test Championship final against Australia, Amla praised the team&rsquo;s resilience.
"Reaching the WTC final was a great achievement. People may talk about different opponents, but South Africa played the teams in their group and performed exceptionally well to get there," he said. "It&rsquo;s going to be a great final. Australia is a competitive team, but in Test cricket, one or two players can turn the game, and South Africa could be champions."

Sports, Cricket: Gill, named India's vice-captain for the Champions Trophy, retook the No. 1 spot in ODI rankings for batters on the opening day of the tournament

South African batting legend Hashim Amla has heaped praise on India’s young opener, Shubman Gill, labelling him as the 'next big thing' in international cricket alongside Rishabh Pant and South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton. Gill, 25, has had a stellar start to his ODI career and was recently named India’s vice-captain for the ongoing Champions Trophy. He reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC ODI rankings for batters on the tournament's opening day, a position he first achieved in 2023. The dynamic right-hander started his campaign with a match-winning century against Bangladesh and followed it up with a crucial 46 against Pakistan, guiding India to two successive wins. "For India, you have Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant has been around for a while. For South Africa, Ryan Rickelton has been outstanding of late," Amla said. "Every country sees two or three young players rise to prominence every five years, and these names could be the next big stars in international cricket," Amla, currently playing for South Africa Masters in the International Masters League, was quoted saying to PTI. Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: AUS vs SA match washed out, points shared Amla lauded Gill’s contributions, particularly his role at the top of the order for India. "He is a brilliant player. The way he has started his ODI career has been exceptional. He has played a crucial role in India's success," Amla said. "Having him alongside Rohit Sharma creates a potent and dangerous opening partnership, and then you have Virat Kohli at No. 3. That’s a formidable top order." Discussing South Africa’s prospects in the Champions Trophy, Amla expressed confidence in their batting lineup, particularly their preparation against spin. "South African batters are well-equipped. The recent tour of Pakistan gave them valuable practice against spin. They’ve also had consistent success," he said. Amla highlighted key players in the Proteas’ middle order: "You've got Heinrich Klaasen, who has been excellent against spinners. David Miller has been a fantastic finisher, and Aiden Markram is a crucial player in the middle order. Temba Bavuma is solid at the top, and Rickelton has proven himself against spin over the last year and a half." 'India and SA are strong contenders' Amla believes both India and South Africa have strong chances of winning the Champions Trophy. "India has had a fantastic team over the last 15 years, so they obviously have a great chance," he said. "South Africa also looks well-balanced with strong batting and bowling. They have an excellent shot at making the top four and, hopefully, winning the title." Reflecting on South Africa’s recent performances, including their appearances in the T20 World Cup final and the World Test Championship final against Australia, Amla praised the team’s resilience. "Reaching the WTC final was a great achievement. People may talk about different opponents, but South Africa played the teams in their group and performed exceptionally well to get there," he said. "It’s going to be a great final. Australia is a competitive team, but in Test cricket, one or two players can turn the game, and South Africa could be champions."

Champions Trophy 2025: 'Gill is next big thing in international cricket,' feels former SA batting great

Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has blasted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for poor facilities at the Champions Trophy venues. He also asked for accountability amid poor rain management of the Rawalpindi stadium during Champions Trophy Group B match between South Africa and Australia on Tuesday (Feb 25).
Kaif asked if the &ldquo;money given by the ICC has been used&rdquo; after pictures showed that most of the ground except the pitch and nearby area was left uncovered.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-would-like-to-state-on-record-that-pakistan-minister-responds-to-media-reports-of-terror-attack-during-tournament-8755171">'Would like to state...,' Pakistan minister responds to media reports of 'terror attack' during tournament</a>
"It's a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn't fully covered. Such an important match - SA vs Aus - might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts?," wrote Kaif alongside a picture of the ground. Have a look at the post below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It's a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn't fully covered. Such an important match - SA vs Aus - might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts? <a href="https://t.co/nPwthd1fji">pic.twitter.com/nPwthd1fji</a>
&mdash; Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1894344268455530897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Group B open for all teams</h2>
After the washout of the game between Australia and South Africa, all four teams in Group B remain in contention of making it to the semis. The top two teams will advance to the next round, with India and New Zealand already through from Group A.
Currently, South Africa and Australia are at three points each after two games and have one game each left. England and Afghanistan, on the other hand, have played one game each and face each other on Wednesday (Feb 26).
England and Afghanistan match result, barring a washout, will send the losing team out of semis contention. If England win the match against Afghanistan and against South Africa afterwards, they'll be through to semis. In that case, South Africa would have to hope for Australia to lose against Afghanistan by a huge margin, else Australia will be through to the semis.
In case Afghanistan win the match against England, that will send Jos Buttler-led side home packing and South Africa almost in semis. Australia, on the other hand, would have to win their game against Afghanistan else they'd be hoping for England to beat South Africa and then fight over net run-rate for a place in the semis.

Champions Trophy: After the washout of game between Australia and South Africa, all four teams in Group B remain in contention of making it to the semis. Cricket Sports

Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has blasted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for poor facilities at the Champions Trophy venues. He also asked for accountability amid poor rain management of the Rawalpindi stadium during Champions Trophy Group B match between South Africa and Australia on Tuesday (Feb 25). Kaif asked if the “money given by the ICC has been used” after pictures showed that most of the ground except the pitch and nearby area was left uncovered. Also Read: 'Would like to state...,' Pakistan minister responds to media reports of 'terror attack' during tournament "It's a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn't fully covered. Such an important match - SA vs Aus - might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts?," wrote Kaif alongside a picture of the ground. Have a look at the post below: It's a shame that the Rawalpindi ground isn't fully covered. Such an important match - SA vs Aus - might go down the drain because no one addressed this issue. Was the ICC money utilised wisely by hosts? pic.twitter.com/nPwthd1fji — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) February 25, 2025 Group B open for all teams After the washout of the game between Australia and South Africa, all four teams in Group B remain in contention of making it to the semis. The top two teams will advance to the next round, with India and New Zealand already through from Group A. Currently, South Africa and Australia are at three points each after two games and have one game each left. England and Afghanistan, on the other hand, have played one game each and face each other on Wednesday (Feb 26). England and Afghanistan match result, barring a washout, will send the losing team out of semis contention. If England win the match against Afghanistan and against South Africa afterwards, they'll be through to semis. In that case, South Africa would have to hope for Australia to lose against Afghanistan by a huge margin, else Australia will be through to the semis. In case Afghanistan win the match against England, that will send Jos Buttler-led side home packing and South Africa almost in semis. Australia, on the other hand, would have to win their game against Afghanistan else they'd be hoping for England to beat South Africa and then fight over net run-rate for a place in the semis.

Champions Trophy, SA vs AUS: Kaif questions if 'ICC money utilised wisely' by Pakistan amid poor ground facilities in Rawalpindi

The highly anticipated ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> 2025 match between Australia and South Africa was abandoned without a toss due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi on Monday (Feb 25).
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc">ICC</a> confirmed the washout on X, stating, "Incessant rain forces the Group B #ChampionsTrophy contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off." Continuous downpours since the morning left the ground staff with no opportunity to prepare the venue, forcing both teams to share a point each.
See the post from ICC here:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Incessant rain forces the Group B <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChampionsTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChampionsTrophy</a> contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off 🌧<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvSA</a> More ➡ <a href="https://t.co/yT4F7I2FDh">https://t.co/yT4F7I2FDh</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDPoRA9KmT">pic.twitter.com/jDPoRA9KmT</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1894362427162333482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-qualification-scenarios-explained-in-group-b-if-aus-sa-contest-gets-washed-out-8754988" rel="dofollow">Champions Trophy 2025: Qualification scenarios explained in Group B if Aus-SA contest gets washed out</a>
With this result, both Australia and South Africa now sit atop Group B with three points each. The washout has also turned Wednesday&rsquo;s match between Afghanistan and England into a virtual knockout, as the losing side will be eliminated from the tournament.
<h2>Pakistan, Bangladesh out</h2>
Meanwhile, in Group A, defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh were knocked out on Monday after New Zealand secured a five-wicket win to join India in the semi-finals.
Looking ahead, Australia will face Afghanistan on Friday at Lahore&rsquo;s Gaddafi Stadium, while South Africa will take on England in their final group-stage match on Saturday at Karachi&rsquo;s National Bank Stadium.
Australia started their campaign with a record-breaking 352-run chase against England, while South Africa registered a dominant 107-run win over Afghanistan in their opening fixture.
Squads: Australia squad: Matthew Short, Travis Head, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/steve-smith">Steven Smith</a> (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tanveer Sangha South Africa squad: Ryan Rickelton (w), Tony de Zorzi, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/temba-bavuma">Temba Bavuma</a> (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Heinrich Klaasen, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch.
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket, Sports: South Africa and Australia are now on three points each. The washout has turned the clash between Afghanistan and England into a virtual knockout one

The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match between Australia and South Africa was abandoned without a toss due to persistent rain in Rawalpindi on Monday (Feb 25). The ICC confirmed the washout on X, stating, "Incessant rain forces the Group B #ChampionsTrophy contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off." Continuous downpours since the morning left the ground staff with no opportunity to prepare the venue, forcing both teams to share a point each. See the post from ICC here: Incessant rain forces the Group B #ChampionsTrophy contest between Australia and South Africa to be called off 🌧#AUSvSA More ➡ https://t.co/yT4F7I2FDh pic.twitter.com/jDPoRA9KmT — ICC (@ICC) February 25, 2025 Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Qualification scenarios explained in Group B if Aus-SA contest gets washed out With this result, both Australia and South Africa now sit atop Group B with three points each. The washout has also turned Wednesday’s match between Afghanistan and England into a virtual knockout, as the losing side will be eliminated from the tournament. Pakistan, Bangladesh out Meanwhile, in Group A, defending champions Pakistan and Bangladesh were knocked out on Monday after New Zealand secured a five-wicket win to join India in the semi-finals. Looking ahead, Australia will face Afghanistan on Friday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, while South Africa will take on England in their final group-stage match on Saturday at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. Australia started their campaign with a record-breaking 352-run chase against England, while South Africa registered a dominant 107-run win over Afghanistan in their opening fixture. Squads: Australia squad: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (w), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, Aaron Hardie, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tanveer Sangha South Africa squad: Ryan Rickelton (w), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Heinrich Klaasen, Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch. (With inputs from agencies)

Champions Trophy 2025: AUS vs SA match washed out, points shared

champions-trophy

Champions Trophy, News on Champions Trophy, stories on Champions Trophy, articles on Champions Trophy, Champions Trophy stories at Wion, Champions Trophy news, Champions Trophy latest news

champions trophy