Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Match 9 - Top 3 player battles to watch out for

Match Overview

February 27 will feature host team Pakistan face off against Bangladesh as both teams will be playing for pride in their last Group A game at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Though the two teams are already knocked out of the tournament, a consolation win may pose an opportunity for them to end the tournament on a high.

A tournament full of disappointment for both teams

The two South Asian nations have had a disappointing tournament, and they are now the first two teams to crash out of the tournament. Both Pakistan and Bangladesh are yet to win a game in Champions Trophy 2025, and they will be hoping that all their players find some form in the upcoming fixture.

Another Asian battle to look forward to

Though Pakistan boast home advantage, the Bangladesh team cannot be taken lightly at all since they have a history of beating big teams in the past. The Pakistan side has not looked in great form and will want to play their best game against the Tigers and at least end their horrific title defence on a high in the ICC event.

Here's top 3 player battles to watch out for in PAK vs BAN Match 8 Champions Trophy 2025

3. Mahmudullah vs Haris Rauf

Mahmudullah has not been in the best of form, but is still one of the most reliable middle-order batters for Bangladesh and has been a match winner for them in the past. However, he has also faced a lot of problems against the raw pace of Haris Rauf in the past, and the 31-year-old pacer will also be up for the challenge.

Though Rauf is yet to dismiss Mahmudullah in ODI cricket, he has still kept him quiet in the format as the Bangladesh veteran has scored only eight runs at a strike rate of 42.1 against him. Not only that but Rauf has dismissed him three times in T20I’s which will give him a lot of confidence while bowling to him.