Bangladesh's Disappointing Warm-Up Loss to Pakistan Shaheens Before Champions Trophy

Ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy, Bangladesh faced Pakistan Shaheens in their only preparation match. In a match that was supposed to be a test of their readiness, Bangladesh suffered a humbling defeat. Despite Pakistan Shaheens fielding players outside their regular 'A' squad, they managed to overpower Bangladesh easily.

Batting first, Bangladesh was bowled out for just 202 runs. Despite a steady start from opener Soumya Sarkar, followed by Mehedi Hasan Miraz (44), and Tanzim Hasan Sakib, the team failed to capitalize on their good starts. Miraz top-scored with 44 runs, and Sakib added a useful 30 runs, but Bangladesh was unable to build partnerships, with wickets falling consistently.

When Pakistan Shaheens came to chase 203, their openers started cautiously. After 10 overs, they were at 2 wickets for 42 runs, and by 20 overs, they had lost 3 wickets for 87 runs. Bangladesh's bowlers, including Nahid Rana, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib, took early wickets, but couldn't sustain the pressure.

However, Mohammad Haris and Mubasir Khan led Pakistan's response with calm and controlled batting. Haris, who scored 76 runs before retiring, and Mubasir Khan, who remained unbeaten on 63, guided their team to victory with ease. With 15.1 overs to spare, Pakistan Shaheens chased down the target of 203 with 7 wickets in hand.

In the end, Bangladesh's preparations for the Champions Trophy ended on a sour note, and this loss serves as a tough wake-up call before their opening match against India in Dubai. The team's performance in this warm-up match highlighted the gaps in both their batting and bowling departments. With their confidence shaken, the Tigers will need to regroup quickly ahead of the group-stage clash with India on February 20.