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The Pakistan Cricket Board has unveiled its 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. Mohammad Rizwan has been named captain, with Salman Ali Agha as his vice-captain.
Table of content
Key Takeaways from Pakistan’s Squad Announcement
- Babar Azam could open the innings
- Fakhar Zaman returns after overcoming injury and illness
- Saim Ayub ruled out due to an ankle injury
- Four pacers included: Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain
- Spin attack led by Abrar Ahmed
Pakistan’s Squad Changes
The squad sees four changes from Pakistan’s last ODI series in South Africa.
In: Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Saud Shakeel
Out: Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, Sufyan Moqim
Babar Azam’s Possible New Role
Asad Shafiq, a member of the National Selection Committee, revealed that Babar Azam might open the batting with Fakhar Zaman.
Fakhar’s opening partner could be either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel, depending on the conditions and match strategy. Babar has experience opening in T20Is and performed well in the Cape Town Test, said Asad Shafiq.
Saim Ayub’s Absence a Big Blow
Young opener Saim Ayub misses out due to an ankle injury sustained in the Cape Town Test. The PCB remains hopeful about his recovery but decided not to rush him back.
Saim was eager to play in the Champions Trophy, but his long-term health is our priority, added Asad Shafiq.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Schedule
Feb 19 – vs New Zealand (Karachi)
Feb 23 – vs India (Dubai)
Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Batters & All-rounders: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha
Wicketkeepers: Mohammad Rizwan (C), Usman Khan
Bowlers: Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain
With a mix of experience and fresh faces, Pakistan will look to recreate their 2017 Champions Trophy glory as they prepare for a high-stakes tournament on home soil.
