Pakistan, Bangladesh to Play Final Champions Trophy Match After Eliminations

Pakistan's cricket team, having been eliminated from the Champions Trophy after defeats to New Zealand and India, will face Bangladesh in a dead rubber match on Thursday, motivated by pride, according to head coach Aaqib Javed. This tournament marks a disappointing end to Pakistan's first hosting of a major international cricket competition in 30 years, with rain threatening to disrupt the final game. The team's struggles have been evident through poor batting, shot selection, and fielding, leading to calls from disgruntled fans for changes in the cricketing structure. Pakistan's recent history includes three consecutive early exits from global white-ball tournaments, highlighting a troubling trend of stagnation. Many players, including captain Mohammad Rizwan and star batter Babar Azam, have not lived up to expectations, contributing to the team's woes along with injuries like that of opener Fakhar Zaman. As they prepare for their last match, the focus will be on restoring some pride amidst a tumultuous campaign.