The defending champions and tournament hosts, Pakistan, are in a difficult position in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. They have lost both of their Group A matches—first against New Zealand in Karachi by 60 runs and then to India in Dubai. With no points on the table and just one match left, their semifinal hopes now depend on other teams.
How Can Pakistan Still Qualify?
Despite their poor start, Pakistan is not officially eliminated. Their only path to the semifinals involves the following:
- India and Bangladesh must beat New Zealand. If New Zealand loses both matches, they will remain at two points with a poor net run rate.
- Pakistan must defeat Bangladesh by a huge margin. This would ensure that all three teams—Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand—are tied at two points each.
- Net run rate will decide the second semifinalist. India, having won their matches, would already qualify. Among Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, the team with the best net run rate will advance to the semifinals.
What If New Zealand Wins Another Match?
Pakistan’s qualification chances will end if New Zealand wins either of their remaining matches against India or Bangladesh. New Zealand is set to face Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on Monday. If the Kiwis win, Pakistan will be eliminated even before their last group-stage match.
