Pakistan's Champions Trophy journey commenced with a disheartening defeat, as Babar Azam faced significant criticism following the team's 60-run loss to New Zealand. Former cricketer Basit Ali expressed his discontent, accusing Babar of lacking intent and prioritizing personal performance over the team's success.

Opening the innings with Saud Shakeel, Babar managed to score 64 runs off 90 deliveries while chasing a target of 321, which left Pakistan in a precarious situation. His cautious batting style, combined with disappointing performances from Mohammad Rizwan (3 runs off 14 balls) and Saud Shakeel (6 runs off 19 balls), hindered the team's ability to build momentum.

Although lower-order batsmen Khushdil Shah (69 runs off 49 balls) and Salman Agha (42 runs off 28 balls) provided some late-game urgency, it was too late to salvage the innings, and Pakistan ultimately collapsed for 260 runs.

“Was he playing for himself? It took him 81 balls to reach fifty. Is he prioritizing his own interests over the nation’s? Is the nation secondary to him? He hit only five fours, while Salman Ali Agha managed to hit more,” Basit remarked during an interview with ARY News.

Basit also criticized the tendency of fans to label anyone who critiques Babar as a ‘traitor.’ 

“Criticism of Babar Azam often leads to accusations of treachery. When we speak positively about him, does he take notice? No,” the former cricketer stated.

The bowling attack also struggled, as New Zealand asserted their dominance from the beginning, with Will Young (107 runs) and Tom Latham (118 not out) dismantling Pakistan's bowling lineup. Haris Rauf had a challenging match, conceding 83 runs while taking two wickets, and Shaheen Afridi failed to claim any wickets.

Naseem Shah started well but could not maintain his form, allowing runs during the final overs. This defeat marked Pakistan's fourth loss to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy, with the Kiwis continuing their unbeaten streak against them in the tournament.

Pakistan's campaign at CT 2025

The recent defeat has significantly impacted Pakistan's chances of reaching the semifinals, rendering their upcoming two matches essential victories. Their prospects now depend on the crucial and high-stakes match against their long-standing rivals, India, scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.

With New Zealand having established a strong position in the group, Pakistan must not experience any further setbacks. After facing India, the team will compete against Bangladesh, striving to prevent an early elimination from the ICC tournament.

Read Also: Babar Azam's Slow Innings Against New Zealand Draws Pujara's Ire

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