Champions Trophy: Manjrekar Questions Pakistan’s Intent After Loss To New Zealand

February 20, 2025: Former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar believes that the upcoming matches will shed more light on whether Pakistan’s lackluster performance is due to a lack of intent or if it’s a deeper issue rooted in their inherent ability. Pakistan’s disappointing start to their Champions Trophy campaign has left fans frustrated and questioning the team’s approach.

In their opener against New Zealand, Pakistan’s pursuit of a daunting 321-run target was lackluster. On a dry pitch offering little assistance to the bowlers, the target seemed achievable if the batters had adopted a run-a-ball mindset. However, Pakistan’s cautious approach, especially from key batters, saw them fall further behind in the race.

Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan were hesitant, opting for a defensive style when the situation demanded aggression. Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star player, too played conservatively, taking his time and adding to the mounting pressure as the team reached 69/3 in the 21st over.

As the required run rate climbed, Babar Azam’s responsibility to accelerate the innings grew. However, after opening up with some attacking shots, he fell for 64 from 90 balls, leaving Pakistan further out of contention.

Manjrekar offered a broader perspective on Pakistan’s performance, stating that the next few matches would reveal whether the issue was due to a lack of intent or the team’s inherent ability. He pointed out that if it was a matter of ability, then resolving it wouldn’t be simple.

“Babar Azam clearly showed poor intent in the first game. But in the next couple of matches, we will know if intent is an issue with Pakistan or inherent ability. If it’s ability then that can’t be easily resolved,” Manjrekar tweeted.

While most Pakistan batters stuck to an overprotective strategy, vice-captain Salman Ali Agha and all-rounder Khushdil Shah attempted to break the shackles. Salman struck a quick-fire 42 from 28 balls, and Khushdil played a swashbuckling knock of 69 off 49 balls. Despite their efforts, Pakistan fell short by 60 runs, handing New Zealand a comfortable win.

Now, with the loss weighing heavily on their title defense, Pakistan heads to Dubai for a high-stakes clash with arch-rivals India. This match could very well define the defending champions’ Champions Trophy journey