In a historic and shocking turn of events, Pakistan’s cricket team has slipped to its lowest ranking in 59 years following a 2-0 series loss to Bangladesh at home. This defeat has not only dented Pakistan’s pride but also significantly impacted their standing in the ICC Rankings, dropping them to the eighth position with 76 rating points.
Series Overview
The series, held in Rawalpindi and Karachi, saw Pakistan struggling to find form and consistency. Bangladesh, on the other hand, capitalized on Pakistan’s weaknesses, showcasing resilience and strategic brilliance. The first Test in Rawalpindi ended in a 10-wicket defeat for Pakistan, despite declaring their first innings. The second Test in Karachi saw Pakistan taking a first-innings lead, only to falter in the second innings and lose by six wickets.
Key Moments
First Test: Rawalpindi
Pakistan declared their first innings at 450/7, hoping to put pressure on Bangladesh. Bangladesh responded with 330, but Pakistan’s second innings collapse saw them all out for 150. Bangladesh chased down the target of 271 without losing a wicket, winning by 10 wickets.
Second Test: Karachi
Pakistan took a slender first-innings lead of 12 runs after bowling out Bangladesh for 210. In their second innings, Pakistan managed only 180, setting a target of 193 for Bangladesh. Bangladesh chased down the target with six wickets in hand, sealing the series 2-0.
Pakistan’s performance in the series was marred by inconsistent batting and ineffective bowling. The top order failed to convert starts into big scores, and the bowlers struggled to take crucial wickets at key moments. Captain Shan Masood, under immense pressure, has now lost his first five Tests as captain, marking the worst start for a Pakistan captain.
New Low in ICC Rankings
This series loss marks a significant low point for Pakistan cricket. The last time Pakistan had such a poor rating was in 1965. The team’s inability to win a Test match at home since March 2021 has only added to the growing concerns about their form and strategy. This series of defeats also highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggles in the World Test Championship, where they have won only two of their nine matches.
Pakistan Cricket Team slipped down to 8th position as icc updates ICC Test Rankings. #ICC #test #TestChampionship #WTCFinal #wtc #WTC25 #PAKvBAN #Pakistan #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/V0UKjmukj3
— The wide Yorker (@TheWideYorker) September 4, 2024
Looking Ahead
As Pakistan grapples with this setback, the focus will now shift to their upcoming series and the need to regroup and strategize effectively. The team will have to work on their weaknesses, particularly in batting and bowling, to regain their standing in international cricket. For Bangladesh, this victory will serve as a significant morale booster as they continue to build on their successes and aim for higher achievements in the future.
