Pakistan coach blames pacers for Champions Trophy exit

Pakistan coach Aqib Javed has highlighted that it was the pacers who failed to perform as per expectations that led to Pakistan’s exit from ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

During media conference in Lahore on Tuesday, Aqib highlighted Pakistan’s struggles against India, emphasising the lack of bowling pressure as a key factor in their defeats against their arch-rivals.

“The two places you get the most reverse swing are Karachi and Dubai and unfortunately this was something our bowlers couldn’t do. I have spoken to Haris Rauf and Shaheen and asked them to go back to work on their skillset,” Aaqib said.

“In the past we have always beaten India by taking wickets and applying pressure. This team had the ability to beat India but the pressure of the match got to them,” he added.

“It is never easy playing against India. It is always a high-pressure game and it is never easy for new players,” he said.

“I can understand the hurt and frustration at our failure but we need to understand neither can you judge a player or team on basis one or two series. You need to be more consistent and patient,” he added.

Pakistan coach pointed out that Pakistan had shown promise by winning ODI series in Australia and South Africa before the Champions Trophy.

“But yes our selections didn’t come through as we thought they would and we must accept New Zealand and India were more balanced and confident,” he said.