New Zealand Stuns Bangladesh, Sends Pakistan Packing at Champions Trophy

When International Cricket Council (ICC) announced that ICC Champions Trophy 2025 had entered its decisive phase, fans in Pakistan braced for a showdown. Rawalpindi International Stadium became the stage on Monday, February 24, 2025, where New Zealand Cricket (NZC) chased down 237 runs to beat Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) by five wickets, sealing Pakistan’s exit from the tournament.

Match Overview

The coin toss gave Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto the choice, and he elected to bat. A solid start saw 64/1 after 12 overs, but New Zealand’s right‑arm medium‑fast Michael Bracewell kept the pressure on, finishing with 4‑27 off his ten‑over spell. Bangladesh limped to 236/9, thanks to Shanto’s 77‑run knock and a late‑innings 45 from Jaker Ali.

New Zealand’s reply began inauspiciously. Opener Will Young was out for a duck in the first over, and skipper Kane Williamson fell for 5 in the fourth, leaving the Kiwis at 19/2. What followed was a masterclass in composure.

Key Performances

Middle‑order batter Rachin Ravindra exploded for 112 off 105 balls, his first ODI century, and paired with veteran Tom Latham for a 132‑run stand. Latham contributed 55, while finisher Glenn Phillips added a quick‑fire 21 off 28 to see NZ over the line with two balls to spare.

On the Bangladeshi side, besides Shanto’s effort, the only other bright spot was Jaker Ali’s late surge. The rest of the batting lineup fell to Bracewell’s disciplined line, with William O'Rourke (2/48), Kyle Jamieson (1/48), and Matt Henry (1/57) chipping in.

Impact on Group A Standings

With the win, New Zealand jumped to 8 points, improving their net‑run‑rate and securing a semifinal berth. Bangladesh, stranded at 2 points, are now mathematically eliminated, as are hosts Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), who had lost all three of their group games.

• New Zealand: 8 points, +NRR, qualified for semifinals.
• Bangladesh: 2 points, eliminated.
• Pakistan: 0 points, eliminated.
• Group A runner‑up still undetermined – depends on South Africa vs Afghanistan result.

Reactions from Teams and Officials

Post‑match, NZC’s head coach Gary Stead praised the “never‑say‑die” attitude of his side. “Ravindra and Latham reminded us why we’re here,” he said. Bangladesh captain Shanto expressed disappointment but remained optimistic: “We gave it our all; the group was tough, but we’ll learn.”

The ICC’s technical committee chair, former England captain Eoin Morgan, congratulated New Zealand on a “classy chase” and highlighted the tournament’s growing competitiveness.

What Lies Ahead for New Zealand and the Tournament

New Zealand now turn their focus to the semifinal scheduled for March 5, likely facing either South Africa or Afghanistan, depending on the outcome of their final group match. The team’s balanced attack—pace spearheaded by Bracewell and a middle order anchored by Ravindra—makes them a genuine contender for the title.

Meanwhile, the ICC will host the remaining group fixtures in Karachi and Lahore, building momentum toward a high‑stakes knockout phase that promises drama for fans worldwide.

Champions Trophy fever is far from over; the next few weeks will determine which of the world’s elite ODI sides hoist the coveted trophy.