India has secured a spot in the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, while defending champions Pakistan were eliminated from the tournament following New Zealand’s five-wicket win over Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on Monday, February 24. A day earlier, India dominated Pakistan with a six-wicket victory in Dubai, driven by a stellar bowling display and a magnificent century from Virat Kohli.

Pakistan’s early exit is a major setback, especially since this was their first ICC tournament on home soil in nearly three decades. Reports indicate that head coach Aaqib Javed, who has been in charge for only three months, may be dismissed following the team’s disappointing performance.

Former cricketer Javed Miandad expressed his frustration, criticizing the players’ lack of determination. “It’s pointless to blame the system, selectors, or management. These players have everything they need—support, financial backing—so where is the passion and professionalism for high-stakes matches?” he said. Miandad also pointed out that Pakistan’s squad appeared to be under pressure even before their clash with India.

New Zealand’s Triumph and Bangladesh’s Exit

New Zealand needed a win to progress to the semi-finals and successfully chased down Bangladesh’s target in a well-fought contest. Rachin Ravindra’s fourth ODI century anchored their chase, while Michael Bracewell played a crucial role with the ball, delivering a match-changing spell of 4/26 in his 10 overs. Bangladesh initially showed promise with Najmul Hossain Shanto’s 77 and Jaker Ali’s 45 helping them post 236/9 in 50 overs.

New Zealand’s chase started poorly, with Will Young and Kane Williamson departing early. However, a steady 57-run partnership between Ravindra and Devon Conway stabilized the innings. Tom Latham’s composed 55 further ensured the Blackcaps’ victory, which not only secured their semi-final spot but also officially knocked Bangladesh out of the tournament.

Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Struggles

Pakistan entered the tournament as defending champions but endured a nightmare campaign. Their opening match saw New Zealand’s Latham and Young score centuries, posting a formidable 320-run total. Despite Fakhar Zaman battling injury, Pakistan’s sluggish batting approach proved costly.

Their must-win encounter against India further exposed their weaknesses. Posting just 241 runs, their bowling attack failed to make an impact as India comfortably chased down the target in 44 overs, thanks to Kohli’s match-winning ton. This defeat virtually sealed Pakistan’s exit, which was confirmed after New Zealand’s win.

With this early departure, Pakistan joined the ranks of defending champions who failed to progress beyond the group stage. India and Sri Lanka (joint-winners in 2002) suffered a similar fate in 2004, while Australia crashed out in 2013 after losing two matches.

Pakistan’s Final Match and Weather Concerns

Pakistan is set to play Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27, but the weather forecast indicates possible disruptions. If rain washes out the match, Pakistan could finish the tournament without a single win—a disappointing conclusion to their title defense.