Thu Feb 27 09:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Crash Out of Champions Trophy, Blaming Injuries and Pressure
**RAWALPINDI, PAKISTAN** – Pakistan’s disappointing exit from the 2025 Champions Trophy has been attributed to injuries and mounting pressure, according to captain Mohammad Rizwan and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood. Key players, including Fakhar Zaman and Sam Ayub, were sidelined due to injuries, further impacting team performance. A loss to India exacerbated the pressure, leaving the team struggling. Their final league match was abandoned due to rain, resulting in their elimination without a single win.
Rizwan expressed disappointment, stating the team fell short of expectations despite their desire to perform well for their nation. He acknowledged the immense pressure and vowed to learn from their mistakes, looking forward to the upcoming series against New Zealand.
He highlighted the impact of injuries on team morale, noting the recent success of the team in Australia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, before the setbacks. While acknowledging the challenges posed by the injuries to Zaman and Ayub, Rizwan emphasized that this was not an excuse for their poor performance.
The team’s exit follows reports of dressing-room tension after their Champions Trophy campaign. The final match against Bangladesh was washed out by rain, dashing Pakistan’s hopes of advancing in the tournament.
First Piper 