Pakistan’s performance in the ICC Champions Trophy was nothing less than catastrophic. The team’s early knockout from the competition resulted from embarrassing losses against India and New Zealand. Pakistan did not secure even one victory, much to the dismay of cricket enthusiasts and experts. Their last match against Bangladesh was whipped out due to rain.

Given such a poor performance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is anticipated to perform a comprehensive review. Considering the next big competition, the national team could see significant roster adjustments, as a few underperforming athletes might be rebranded.

Babar Azam’s Flop Show Continues

Though one of Pakistan’s most dependable batters, Babar Azam has found it hard to produce in important competitions. In ICC events, he has rather mediocre figures. Over 22 innings spread over the Champions Trophy, T20 World Cup, and ODI World Cup, he is hitting a poor average of 32.65 with 653 runs only.

The numbers show a long, rough stretch that indicates Azam has not lived up to his reputation in pressure moments. Pakistan’s group stage exit puts Azam’s position in the spotlight; he could be cut before the next major ICC tournament. The former Pakistan captain hasn’t scored an ODI century since August 2023, when he smashed triple figures against Nepal.

Naseem Shah’s Wicket-Taking Troubles

Though Naseem Shah’s most recent play calls this into question, Pakistan’s speed attack has always been among its greatest assets. In white-ball cricket, the young fast bowler has been inefficient; he has taken wickets at a disturbing average of 38.60 over his last eleven one-day internationals.

He is a liability in the bowling department, given his economy rate of 6.06 and lack of quickness in important situations. Shah might be one of the bowlers not included in the team in the next selection overhaul, given Shaheen Afridi’s status probably keeps him in.

Tayyab Tahir’s Underwhelming Stint

Expected to bring some middle-order steadiness to the ODI team, Tayyab Tahir’s play has been underwhelming. He left Pakistan’s batting order weak with just five runs in two key games against New Zealand and India.

Tahir has failed to validate his pick in the face of changes; his poor performance in the Champions Trophy makes it unlikely he will keep his place in the team. Given Pakistan’s need to recover, his place is among the most fragile. This disappointed the selectors, considering Tahir had scored important runs in the South Africa series. He also had a few decent cameos in the tri-series leading up to the Champions Trophy. 

Fate Of Pakistan Senior Players

Following Pakistan’s terrible Champions Trophy run, reports indicate several senior players, including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah, are considering missing the next trip to New Zealand. With selectors demanding a squad overhaul, the series—comprising three ODIs and five T20Is—could witness significant lineup changes.

It is said that these athletes know they are in danger of being cut and will perhaps voluntarily withdraw before selectors finalize their picks. As conversations continue, the PCB is expected to issue official squad change declarations in the next weeks.

End Of Rant

Pakistan’s disappointing Champions Trophy departure has revived conversations on leader decisions, player performance, and team selection. The PCB should be expected to act definitively, and perhaps some players will be let go to create space for new talent. Whether this revamp will result in good change remains to be seen, but one thing is sure—the team cannot repeat such performances in later ICC events.