With hopes of reaching the 2025 Champions Trophy semifinals dashed, Bangladesh and Pakistan are set to face off in a final bid to end their campaigns with a win, though weather conditions in Rawalpindi could influence the match.
Both Bangladesh and Pakistan, whose Champions Trophy dreams ended prematurely, will now focus on securing a victory in their final group stage match. This match offers both teams a crucial opportunity to redeem themselves before the next series, with a win potentially boosting their confidence.
For Bangladesh, this is not just a formality but a final chance to showcase their abilities. Despite a challenging tournament where both batting and bowling have faltered, the team is likely to maintain their lineup with minimal changes. Mehedi Hasan Miraz, who has been impressive with the ball, could be moved to number three in the batting order, while leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, who has caused problems for opponents recently, is expected to retain his place.
As for Pakistan, although their batting lineup has been stable, the bowling department has shown signs of fatigue. Therefore, they might make changes to their pace attack, possibly resting Shaheen Shah Afridi or Haris Rauf and bringing in Mohammad Hasnain or Faheem Ashraf. Additionally, they might experiment with their batting by including Usman Khan or Kamran Gulam.
Bangladesh’s Likely XI:
Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mehedi Hasan Miraz, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Mahmudullah, Zakir Ali, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana.
Pakistan’s Likely XI:
Imam-ul-Haq/Usman Khan, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (captain, wicketkeeper), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi/Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
Liberty News’ sports correspondent states that both teams are expected to make tactical adjustments in this final showdown. The question remains: Can Bangladesh clinch a victory in their final match, or will Pakistan’s pace attack prove too strong? The answer will unfold on the field.
