In the heartbreaking match that left millions of Pakistani supporters dismayed, New Zealand pulled a remarkable victory in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener, Live loses cuts short Pakistan’s hopes, in this drama filled match with dropped catches. However, all eyes were on the captain Babar Azam, who, with his uncharacteristic blunders, transformed from a hero into a villain with incredible speed.
The Drama Filled Match: When Everything Went Sour
With a competitive target of 289 runs to chase, Mohammad Rizwan’s 80 off 85 provided Pakistan’s innings with the perfect start. Where everything went south, was when Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batter and captain, strode into the stadium and started playing. It is well known that people have high expectations from him, and fans were ready for a classic Babar rant. But instead, the entire stadium was on their feet as he took 41 balls to score 22 runs before he was caught behind edging a single ball. Because Babar was playing for the same team, his dismissal resulted in a shocking collapse as Pakistan lost 5 wickets for only 27 runs in the final 10 overs.
Babar’s Costly Miss: The Drop That Will Come Back To Bother Pakistan
Earlier in the game, Babar did not omit himself from the scrutiny of his leadership by dropping a highly vital catch to New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips when he was on 45.
Phillips went on to score 89 runs single-handedly, putting New Zealand in a match winning position. Fans referred to the drop on social media as a moment of madness, which cost Pakistan the match.
Rizwan’s effort while commendable was brought to vain after Babar failing. While Rizwan middle order batter did get some support but it was nowhere near enough. “I’ve done my best to support my team but cricket is a team game,” Rizwan stated with disappointment in his voice.
Pakistani fans vented out their grief on social media expressing their anger, sadness, and hope. “Babar is our pride, but today he let us down,” wrote one user. Others supported the team citing the need to win important matches. On the flip side, New Zealand players enjoyed what most describe as an upset victory with captain Kane Williamson praising the teams “never give up attitude.”
Babar’s decisions such as the batting order shuffle and fielding positions baffle analysts. Former Pakistani bowler Shoaib Akhtar said, “It’s counter intuitive, but leadership is all about dealing with pressure and Babar must do so.”
Pakistan made a shocking start to the Champions Trophy and now need to win the remaining group stages matches to stand a chance at the semi finals.
Everyone’s head is now turned towards Babar Azam. Will he rise from the ashes to reclaim his throne as Pakistan’s savior?
