With this result, both teams ended their campaigns with a single point each. Bangladesh (-0.443) finished ahead of Pakistan (-1.087) on net run rate.

Persistent Rain Forces Abandonment

The rain never relented throughout the afternoon, preventing any play. The match was officially called off at 3:27 PM local time, just an hour and a half after the scheduled start.

Rawalpindi hosted only one completed match in this tournament—New Zealand’s five-wicket win over Bangladesh on February 24.

Impact on Group A Standings

With only one match remaining in A—India vs New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai—the semi-finalists are already decided. The India-New Zealand clash will determine the group topper.

What’s Next for Pakistan and Bangladesh?

• Pakistan will now head to New Zealand for a white-ball tour featuring five T20Is and three ODIs.
• Bangladesh will prepare to host Zimbabwe for a three-match ODI and T20I series.

This washout concludes Pakistan and Bangladesh’s disappointing Champions Trophy campaigns, as both teams exit the tournament without a single victory.

Also Read : Champions Trophy 2025: New Zealand Secure Semi-Final Spot with Win Over Bangladesh

Omarzai’s Game-Changing Spell

With England needing 27 runs off 20 balls, Omarzai stepped up in the death overs, producing a match-winning spell of 3.5-0-26-3. His short-ball tactics dismissed a well-set Joe Root (114 not out), shifting the momentum.

“Omarzai is one who just flies under the radar,” said former Pakistan captain Urooj Mumtaz. “He bowls the toughest overs, varies his pace smartly, and is becoming Afghanistan’s version of Hardik Pandya or Azhar Mahmood— complete allrounder.”

Key Wickets and a Crucial Knock

Omarzai made an impact from the start, removing Phil Salt early and later dismissing Jos Buttler and Jamie Overton. His efforts broke the game open multiple times for Afghanistan.

He also played a handy knock of 41 (31) in Afghanistan’s first innings, ensuring they reached a competitive 326 runs.

Afghanistan’s Rise in World Cricket

This victory reflects Afghanistan’s growth as a serious force in international cricket. “A few years ago, Afghanistan depended solely on Rashid Khan,” said Nick Knight, “but now, with players like Omarzai stepping up, they are a competitive unit even when Rashid has an off day.”

With this win, Afghanistan sets up a blockbuster semi-final clash against Australia on Friday, looking to continue their incredible journey.

Also Read : Azmatullah Omarzai: Afghanistan’s Ultimate Utility Allrounder Shines Against England

Omarzai’s all-round brilliance helps Afghanistan knock England out of the Champions Trophy

February 27, 2025 | ESPNcricinfo Staff

Azmatullah Omarzai delivered a sensational performance in a high-pressure Champions Trophy 2025 match against England, proving his value as Afghanistan’s perfect utility allrounder. With a five-wicket haul (5 for 58) and a crucial 41 off 31 balls, he played a pivotal role in Afghanistan’s thrilling win.

Omarzai’s Game-Changing Spell

With England needing 27 runs off 20 balls, Omarzai stepped up in the death overs, producing a match-winning spell of 3.5-0-26-3. His short-ball tactics dismissed a well-set Joe Root (114 not out), shifting the momentum.

“Omarzai is one who just flies under the radar,” said former Pakistan captain Urooj Mumtaz. “He bowls the toughest overs, varies his pace smartly, and is becoming Afghanistan’s version of Hardik Pandya or Azhar Mahmood—a complete allrounder.”

Key Wickets and a Crucial Knock

Omarzai made an impact from the start, removing Phil Salt early and later dismissing Jos Buttler and Jamie Overton. His efforts broke the game open multiple times for Afghanistan.

He also played a handy knock of 41 (31) in Afghanistan’s first innings, ensuring they reached a competitive 326 runs.

Afghanistan’s Rise in World Cricket

This victory reflects Afghanistan’s growth as a serious force in international cricket. “A few years ago, Afghanistan depended solely on Rashid Khan,” said Nick Knight, “but now, with players like Omarzai stepping up, they are a competitive unit even when Rashid has an off day.”

Also Read : Bangladesh’s Senior Players Fail to Deliver Yet Again in ICC Events

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.

Also Read : Australia Stuns England with Record-Breaking Chase in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Match Summary

Bangladesh: 236/9 (50 overs)

• Najmul Hossain Shanto – 77 (110)
• Jaker Ali – 45 (48)
• Michael Bracewell – 4/26
• Will O’Rourke – 2/48

New Zealand: 240/5 (46.1 overs)

• Rachin Ravindra – 112 (128)
• Tom Latham – 55 (75)
• Taskin Ahmed – 2/38

New Zealand won by 5 wickets (with 23 balls remaining).
Player of the Match – Michael Bracewell (4/26 & 11*)

Rachin Ravindra’s Masterclass Secures Victory

New Zealand found themselves in early trouble at 15/2, but Rachin Ravindra played a magnificent innings of 112 runs, stitching crucial partnerships with Tom Latham (129-run stand) and Devon Conway (57-run stand). Ravindra’s ability to rotate the strike and punish bad deliveries made the chase look effortless.

Bangladesh’s bowlers, particularly Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana, started strongly, dismissing Will Young (0) and Kane Williamson (6) early. However, they failed to maintain the pressure, allowing New Zealand’s middle order to take control.

Bracewell’s All-Round Brilliance

Michael Bracewell, known primarily for his batting, played a match-winning role with the ball, dismantling Bangladesh’s batting lineup with 4/26. His spell ensured that Bangladesh couldn’t post a competitive total despite a fighting 77 from Shanto.

Bracewell also contributed the winning runs, sealing New Zealand’s place in the semi-finals. His all-round performance highlighted New Zealand’s depth and adaptability in the tournament.

Bangladesh & Pakistan Knocked Out

With this loss, Bangladesh joined hosts Pakistan in being eliminated from the tournament. Meanwhile, New Zealand and India have secured their spots in the semi-finals from Group A.

Also Read : South Africa Dominates Afghanistan in ICC Champions Trophy Opener

Kohli’s Century Leads India to Victory

Chasing a target of 242, India’s star batter Virat Kohli played a masterclass innings, remaining unbeaten on 100* off 112 balls. His composed century, supported by Shubman Gill (54) and KL Rahul (38*), guided India to victory in 42.3 overs.

Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Afridi (2-74), tried to create pressure, but Kohli’s experience and India’s steady partnerships ensured a comfortable chase.

Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat

Earlier, Pakistan posted 241 runs in 49.4 overs, with Saud Shakeel top-scoring at 62. India’s bowling attack, led by Kuldeep Yadav (3-40), kept the pressure on, preventing Pakistan from accelerating in the middle overs.

A Historic Milestone for Kohli

Kohli’s century marked another milestone in his illustrious career, making him the fastest batter to cross 14,000 ODI runs. His innings drew praise from cricketing legends, with Yuvraj Singh and Sachin Tendulkar lauding his performance.

Electrifying Atmosphere in Dubai

The match witnessed a packed stadium with passionate fans from both sides. The electric atmosphere, filled with chants and celebrations, added to the intensity of this iconic rivalry.

What’s Next?

With this victory, India advanced to the semifinals, while Pakistan faces an uphill battle to stay in contention. As the tournament progresses, cricket fans can expect more thrilling encounters in the coming days.

Also Read : Shami’s Five-For and Gill’s Gritty Ton Secure India’s Victory Over Bangladesh

This chase set a new record for the highest successful run chase in any ICC ODI tournament. Inglis’s maiden ODI century, featuring eight fours and six sixes, overshadowed England’s Ben Duckett, who had earlier struck a tournament-record 165 off 143 balls.

England Posts Competitive Total

Winning the toss and electing to field, Australia faced a stiff challenge as Duckett’s stunning knock, complemented by Joe Root’s 68, propelled England to 351-8. Their 158-run partnership laid the foundation for a strong finish, with Jofra Archer’s quick cameo (21 off 10) pushing England past the 350-run mark.

Despite missing key pacers like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, Australia’s bowling unit—led by Ben Dwarshuis (3-66) and Adam Zampa (2-64)—managed timely breakthroughs to restrict further damage.

Australia’s Resilient Chase

Chasing 352, Australia had a shaky start as Jofra Archer and Mark Wood removed Travis Head (6) and captain Steven Smith (5) early. However, Matthew Short (63) and Marnus Labuschagne (47) stabilized the innings with a crucial 95-run stand before England’s spinners tried to seize control.

With Australia at 136-4, Inglis and Alex Carey (69) took charge, stitching together a 146-run partnership that turned the game. The dew factor made bowling difficult, and England missed a crucial opportunity when Archer dropped Carey in the outfield.

Glenn Maxwell (32* off 15) provided the finishing touch, while Inglis sealed the victory in style, smashing Wood for a six over mid-wicket.

Historic Achievement

The match witnessed a packed crowd in Lahore, adding to the electric atmosphere as Australia claimed a statement win in Group B. The victory not only strengthened their campaign but also cemented their reputation as one of the most dominant teams in ICC tournaments.

Also Read : India vs Pakistan: A High-Stakes Clash in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Read more about ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India’s Strong Start to the Tournament

India began their campaign with a commanding six-wicket victory over Bangladesh. Shubman Gill was the star of the match, scoring a brilliant century to guide his team to a successful chase of 229 runs. Rohit Sharma’s leadership, coupled with the strong performances of Virat Kohli and the Indian spin attack, has made them the tournament favorites.

India’s bowling lineup, featuring Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja, will look to exploit the conditions in Dubai. With the experience of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant in the middle order, India boasts a well-balanced squad ready to take on their arch-rivals.

Pakistan’s Challenge and Recent Form

Pakistan faced a disappointing start with a 60-run loss to New Zealand in their opening match. Despite strong performances from Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, the team struggled with consistency, particularly in the batting department. The injury to Fakhar Zaman has further weakened their top order, with Imam-ul-Haq stepping in as his replacement.

Pakistan will rely on their pace attack, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, to counter India’s batting strength. Mohammad Rizwan, who is leading the side, will have to play a crucial role in stabilizing the middle order.

Head-to-Head and Historical Rivalry

India and Pakistan share a storied history in ICC tournaments. Pakistan’s only Champions Trophy win came in 2017, when they defeated India in the final. However, India has historically dominated their arch-rivals in ICC events, with multiple victories in World Cups and Champions Trophy editions.

With both teams eyeing a spot in the semifinals, this clash will be a defining moment in the tournament.

Check out the latest ICC Champions Trophy standings

What’s Next in the Tournament

Following this high-stakes encounter, both teams will have crucial group-stage matches ahead. India will face South Africa next, while Pakistan takes on Afghanistan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals.

Also Read : Rohit Regrets Dropped Catch That Denied Axar a Hat-Trick

Read more about ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Rickelton’s Maiden ODI Century

Rickelton anchored South Africa’s innings with a well-crafted 103 off 106 balls, featuring seven boundaries and a six. He received solid support from captain Temba Bavuma (58), Rassie van der Dussen (52), and Aiden Markram (52*), ensuring South Africa posted a strong total after winning the toss.

Afghanistan’s bowling struggled against the Proteas’ solid batting lineup. Mohammad Nabi provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Tony de Zorzi for 11, but Afghanistan failed to contain the South African batters. Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s star leg-spinner, went wicketless, conceding 59 runs in his 10 overs.

Afghanistan’s Struggles with the Chase

Chasing 316, Afghanistan’s batting lineup faltered early. Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz (10) and Ibrahim Zadran (17) departed cheaply, leaving Afghanistan at 50-4 within the first 10 overs. Rahmat Shah fought hard with a valiant 90 off 92 balls but received little support from the middle order. Kagiso Rabada (3-36), Wiaan Mulder (2-36), and Lungi Ngidi (2-56) led South Africa’s bowling attack, dismantling Afghanistan for just 208 in 43.3 overs.

Despite a brief late flourish from Rashid Khan, who scored 18 off 13 balls, Afghanistan fell well short of the target.

Post-Match Reactions

“It’s a clinical performance,” said South Africa captain Temba Bavuma. “Winning the toss helped, but we executed our batting and bowling plans effectively.”

Afghanistan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi admitted his team struggled: “Our batting wasn’t up to the mark today. The pitch supported their bowlers, but we’ll bounce back in the upcoming matches.”

Check out the latest ICC Champions Trophy standings

What’s Next in Group B

The ICC Champions Trophy action continues with Australia facing England in Lahore on Saturday. Meanwhile, in Group A, arch-rivals Pakistan and India will lock horns in a highly anticipated match on Sunday. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals.

Also Read : World Cricket NewsNew Zealand Crushes Pakistan by 60 Runs in Champions Trophy 2025 Opener

“That was an easy catch, I should have taken that,” Rohit admitted at the post-match presentation. “I’ve set high standards for myself in the slips, and missing that was disappointing. But these things happen. The way our bowlers performed set up the game for us.”

Axar had Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim dismissed on consecutive deliveries and nearly completed a hat-trick when Jaker Ali edged his first ball—only for Rohit to drop the chance. Axar finished with 2 for 43, while Jaker capitalized on the lifeline to score 68, forming a crucial century partnership with Towhid Hridoy.

To make amends, Rohit joked that he would take Axar out for dinner. Axar, however, took the setback in stride, saying, “I was ready to celebrate, but then I saw it didn’t happen. These things are part of the game.”

Also Read : Marcus Stoinis Shocks Australian Camp with Sudden ODI Retirement Amid Injury Concerns

Shami’s Early Strikes Put India on Top

Bangladesh, having opted to bat first, struggled from the outset as Shami’s disciplined bowling tore through their lineup. He finished with figures of 5 for 53, reaching a historic milestone as the fastest bowler to claim 200 ODI wickets in terms of balls bowled. His fiery opening spell reduced Bangladesh to 35 for 5 before a counterattack from Towhid Hridoy (100) and Jaker Ali (68) helped them reach a respectable 228.

Axar Patel also played a key role, taking two wickets in quick succession and nearly securing a hat-trick—denied only by Rohit Sharma’s dropped catch. Bangladesh, aided by some reprieves, managed to post a fighting total but fell short of the ideal target on a sluggish pitch.

Gill Anchors India’s Chase

India started aggressively, with Rohit Sharma (41 off 36) and Gill stitching a 69-run opening stand. However, Bangladesh’s spinners soon applied pressure, leading to a middle-order slowdown. Virat Kohli (19), Shreyas Iyer (15), and Axar Patel (9) fell cheaply as India’s scoring rate dipped.

Gill, however, adjusted to the conditions, curbing his aggressive instincts to build a steady innings. His 101* off 129 balls was India’s slowest ODI century in six years, but it ensured a comfortable chase. KL Rahul (41*) provided solid support, sealing the win with a six with 21 balls to spare.

Key Takeaways

• Shami’s brilliance: His sixth ODI five-for reaffirmed his class, especially after returning from injuries.
• Gill’s resilience: He adapted to the tricky pitch and stayed till the end to guide India home.
• Missed opportunities: Bangladesh’s dropped chances and slow start cost them a stronger total.

India, now second in Group A with two points, will look to build momentum in their next match, while Bangladesh will need to regroup to stay in contention.

Also Read : ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Top Contenders and Title Favorites