The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been a challenging tournament for Pakistan, with their performance falling short of expectations.
Despite having a talented squad, they have struggled to make an impact, facing setbacks in key areas of the game.
This analysis will delve into three primary reasons behind Pakistan’s disappointing performance: inconsistent batting, lack of depth in bowling, and fielding and strategic errors.
1. Inconsistent Batting Performance
Pakistan’s batting has been inconsistent throughout the tournament. They have struggled to build substantial partnerships and accelerate their innings effectively.
Despite having talented batsmen like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, they have failed to post competitive totals consistently.
This inconsistency has been evident in matches against India and New Zealand, where they were unable to capitalize on solid starts.
In their match against India, Pakistan’s batting was a prime example of these issues. Despite a solid start from Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq, they were unable to build on it.
The middle order collapsed, and they were bowled out for 241 runs, which was not enough to challenge India’s strong batting lineup.
2. Lack of Depth in Bowling
Pakistan’s bowling attack lacks depth, particularly in death bowling. They struggle to restrict opponents in the final overs, allowing them to score heavily.
The absence of a strong spin option to control the middle overs has also been a challenge. This lack of variation makes it easier for opponents to plan their innings and score freely.
Pakistan’s bowlers have struggled to take wickets in clusters, which is crucial for putting pressure on the opposition.
3. Fielding and Strategic Errors
Pakistan’s fielding and strategic decisions have also been significant factors in their disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Despite having some talented fielders, they have been guilty of dropping crucial catches and misfields that have cost them crucial runs.
Additionally, strategic errors, such as not being able to capitalize on early wickets or failing to apply pressure on the opposition, have hindered their performance.
One of the most frustrating aspects of Pakistan’s fielding has been the number of dropped catches.
In several matches, they have dropped crucial catches that have allowed opponents to build partnerships and score heavily.
This lack of sharpness in the field has meant that even when they have taken early wickets, they have been unable to capitalize on them fully.
