Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 Qualification Scenario: How Can PAK Qualify For Semifinals?

Pakistan Champions Trophy Qualification Scenario: Pakistan are set to face India in the most anticipated showdown of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 23 (Sunday) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. While the fixture stands as a must-win for both the sides given the sentiments associated with any IND vs PAK clash, Pakistan find themselves in a literal must-win situation after facing a comprehensive 60-run loss against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener at Karachi on February 19.

Playing their first match as a host to an ICC tournament in over 29 years, Pakistan succumbed to the Kiwis in both batting and bowling. New Zealand Will Young and Tom Latham scored sensational centuries and posted a mammoth 320-5.

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Chasing 321, Pakistan’s batting faltered as the Champions Trophy 2025 hosts could only manage 260 runs on the board before they were bundled out. While Babar Azam scored 64 runs, his innings was scratchy and came in as many as 90 balls, attracting widespread criticism.

With the defeat, the Mohammad Rizwan-led Pakistan went to the bottom of the Group A points table with a net run rate (NRR) of -1.200. Now, that begs the question—can Pakistan qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinals?

Can Pakistan Still Qualify For Champions Trophy 2025 Semifinals?

For Pakistan to secure a confirmed semifinal spot, they must win both of their remaining group-stage matches, against India and then South Africa. A single loss would leave their fate hanging on various permutations and combinations. Even with victories in both games, their qualification isn’t guaranteed, as their NRR could still play a crucial role.

Pakistan Champions Trophy Qualification Scenario

If Pakistan lose both the remaining games: knocked out

If Pakistan win one of the two remaining games: Their semifinal hopes will depend on other teams and NRR

If Pakistan win both of their remaining games: Likely to qualify, NRR might still come in the picture.

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