Bangladesh’s struggles in ICC tournaments continued as their senior players once again failed to step up in crucial matches. Their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign came to an end after back-to-back poor performances with the bat, managing only 228 all out in the first match and 236/9 in the second.
Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer criticized the experienced players, particularly Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, for their rash shot selection in the must-win game against New Zealand. Both batters fell cheaply, leaving Bangladesh five down by the 27th over, making their total far from competitive.
“We’ve only seen Shakib Al Hasan deliver consistently in ICC tournaments, like in the 2019 World Cup. But others just don’t turn up. Whether it’s pressure or something else, it’s the same story in every ICC event,” Jaffer said on ESPNcricinfo.
Mahmudullah, who had delivered match-winning performances in past ICC events, missed the first game due to injury and failed to contribute in the second. Jaffer believed Bangladesh fell at least 50–60 runs short on a Rawalpindi pitch that was good for batting.
Shane Bond, the former New Zealand fast bowler, also pointed out that while Bangladesh’s bowling attack showed promise, their batting remained a major weakness. Missed chances in the field further compounded their problems, allowing Rachin Ravindra to capitalize on dropped catches and missed run-out opportunities.
“If Bangladesh had taken their chances, the game could have been completely different. Their bowling has potential, but their batting is a real issue,” Bond remarked.
With another ICC event ending in disappointment, Bangladesh will need to rethink their approach, especially how their senior players handle pressure on the big stage.
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