ISLAMABAD: In a crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match, Pakistan’s batting struggled under India’s disciplined bowling attack, leading to many dot balls that severely hindered their scoring rate.
In their tournament opener against New Zealand, Pakistan had already faced a similar challenge, accumulating 161 dot balls while chasing a target of 321. The situation remained unchanged in their high-stakes clash with arch-rivals India, where they encountered 147 dot balls, highlighting the constant pressure from India’s bowlers.
Despite a challenging 11-ball over from India’s Mohammed Shami, which included five wides, Pakistan’s batsmen couldn’t capitalize, facing 28 dot balls in the first six overs. The pressure mounted as, by the 26th over, Pakistan had already accumulated an astonishing 100 dot balls, showcasing the precision and fielding prowess of the Indian team.
Strategic field placements effectively blocked Mohammad Rizwan’s sweep shots, and while the pitch wasn’t overly unpredictable, it appeared slower compared to the ease with which Indian batsmen were able to accumulate runs.
A notable dry spell occurred between overs 15.1 and 24.2, during which no boundaries were scored. Saud Shakeel ended the drought with a paddle shot over the wicketkeeper’s head for a four off Axar Patel after 32 balls.
Ultimately, Pakistan was bowled out in the 50th over, facing four dot balls in the process, finishing their innings at 241. This performance mirrored their earlier match against New Zealand, where they faced 161 dot balls while chasing a challenging target of 320.
As India moved towards their target, Pakistan’s hopes of advancing to the semi-finals were dashed, marking a major setback in their tournament campaign.
