Mohammad Rizwan has expressed that Pakistan’s chances in the Champions Trophy 2025 are almost over, even though there is a slim chance they could still make it to the semifinals. Currently sitting at the bottom of Group A with a net run rate of -1.087, Pakistan faced tough losses, beginning with a 60-run defeat against New Zealand, followed by a six-wicket setback against India in Dubai.
For Pakistan to keep their hopes alive, they need to win their last group match against Bangladesh on February 27. They also have to hope for favorable results from other matches—particularly a win for Bangladesh against New Zealand on February 24 in Rawalpindi. Despite this, Rizwan, who scored 46 runs off 77 balls against India, emphasized that depending on others is not his style.
During the post-match press conference, Rizwan stated, “Right now, we can say it’s over—that’s the reality. We must pay attention to what Bangladesh does against New Zealand and how New Zealand performs against India, but it’s a long shot.” He added, “Our future is out of our hands. As a captain, I prefer not to rely on other teams. We should strive to win on our own terms without depending on the outcomes of others. We acknowledge that India and New Zealand beat us, and we didn’t play our best.”
In the match against India, Pakistan batted first but was bowled out for 241 runs in 49.4 overs, with Saud Shakeel being the top scorer at 62. India easily chased down the target with 45 balls remaining, led by Virat Kohli’s remarkable unbeaten knock of 100 runs off 111 balls. While Shaheen Shah Afridi took two wickets, he struggled with his economy, giving away more than nine runs per over.
The partnership between Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, which added 114 runs for the third wicket, ultimately sealed Pakistan’s fate. With this victory, India climbed to the top of Group A, gathering four points and a net run rate of +0.647. India’s next challenge will be against New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai.
