Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Hopes Hang by ‘Ifs and Buts’ after India Defeat

Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy remain mathematically possible but highly improbable following their six-wicket loss to India in a Group A clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Batting first, Pakistan managed 241 before being bowled out with two deliveries to spare. Saud Shakeel led the scoring with 62, while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46. India’s left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav was instrumental in restricting Pakistan, taking 3-40.

In response, India chased down the target comfortably, with Virat Kohli’s unbeaten century (100*) anchoring the innings. Shreyas Iyer provided solid support with a knock of 56 as India secured their second consecutive victory with 7.3 overs remaining.

Pakistan’s Slim Path to Semifinals

Despite two losses, Pakistan still has an outside chance of qualifying for the semifinals, but their fate depends on several favorable results and net run-rate calculations.

To stay in contention, Pakistan must defeat Bangladesh by a substantial margin on February 27. Additionally, India must overcome New Zealand on March 2 in Dubai.

Moreover, Pakistan’s hopes hinge on New Zealand losing both their remaining matches by significant margins, which would dent their net run rate. Any washout in these key matches would officially eliminate Pakistan from the tournament.

With multiple external factors needing to align, Pakistan’s path to the semifinals remains highly unlikely. The coming week will determine their fate as the group stage nears its conclusion.