Bangladesh’s confidence took a major hit ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as they suffered a crushing defeat against Pakistan Shaheens in a warm-up match in Dubai. Pakistan Shaheens defeated Bangladesh by a big margin of 7 wickets. 

In the match, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and elected to bat first. This choice gives the team a chance to make some changes to their batting order before the game starts.

On the other hand, Pakistan Shaheens (Pakistan ‘A’ team) is being led by Mohammad Haris. The team features a mix of promising young talents and experienced players.

Bangladesh opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim was dismissed early in the innings after scoring 6 runs. After that, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was also out. He scored just 12 runs. Soumya Sarkar and Mehidy Hasan Miraz tackled the initial blow and made a good partnership.

Soumya scored 35 runs and was dismissed after that. However, Miraz and Towhid Hridoy made another good partnership. Bangladesh were at 104/3 after 20 overs. But then Usama Mir came and picked up all the set batters including Miraz (44), Hridoy (19). Mushfiqur Rahim (7) and Jaker Ali Anik (0) also failed.

Bangladesh are at 140/7 after 30 overs during the writing of this report. Rishad Hossain (3*) and Tanzim Hasan Sakib (2*) are on the crease. They both made a 34-run partnership which helped Bangladesh later to cross the 200-run mark. Tanzim Sakib scored 30 runs off 27 balls. Rishad Hossain (14) and Nasum Ahmed (15) also contributed, but Bangladesh were bundled out for 202 runs in just 38.2 overs. Usama Mir was the best bowler for Pakistan Shaheens with 4 wickets. 

In reply, Pakistan Shaheens lost 2 wickets within 10 overs. They are at 42/2 after 10 overs. Miraz and Nahid Rana took the wickets. Bangladesh managed to take three wickets before the 100-run mark, but failed to put further pressure on the opposition.

Eventually, Pakistan comfortably reached the target, handing Bangladesh a one-sided defeat. Despite using 15 players in the match, Bangladesh's bowling lacked bite, and their overall performance raised serious concerns ahead of the Champions Trophy.

With just days left before their tournament opener against India on February 20, this heavy loss is a wake-up call for the Tigers to rethink their batting, bowling, and strategy before the big stage.