Is Pakistan still in contention for a spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finals?
Pakistan’s hopes of making it to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals have taken a severe blow after back-to-back defeats in the group stage. The defending champions first fell to New Zealand by 60 runs in Karachi, a loss that also dented their net run rate. Then, on Sunday in Dubai, they suffered another setback against arch-rivals India, leaving them at the bottom of Group A with zero points and just one match remaining.
Despite the disappointing start, Pakistan is still mathematically in contention, though their fate now hinges on other results.
What Needs to Happen for Pakistan to Qualify?
For Pakistan to reach the semifinals, two key outcomes must go in their favor. First, Bangladesh and India need to defeat New Zealand in their upcoming matches. If this scenario plays out, New Zealand will finish with just two points.
Pakistan must then secure a comprehensive victory against Bangladesh in their final game. This would result in a three-way tie, with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand all finishing on two points. In such a case, net run rate will determine which team advances alongside India.
What If New Zealand Wins Again?
If New Zealand manages to win either of their remaining games—against Bangladesh or India—Pakistan will be eliminated from the tournament, regardless of their result in the final group match.
New Zealand’s next fixture is against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on Monday. A victory for the Kiwis in that match would officially end Pakistan’s hopes of defending their Champions Trophy title even before they take the field for their last game.
