Key batter ruled out as Pakistan name ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad
Pakistan has announced the squad set to defend their ICC Champions Trophy title in 2025. The Men in Green, who last won the tournament in 2017, will co-host this edition alongside the UAE.
Rizwan Leads the Charge
Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan will captain the team, continuing in the role he assumed after Babar Azam stepped down post the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. This marks the first ICC 50-over tournament since then, making it a crucial campaign for Pakistan.
Key Omissions and Inclusions
One of the biggest surprises is the absence of young batting sensation Saim Ayub, who suffered an ankle injury during Pakistan’s New Year’s Test in Cape Town, South Africa.
"We understand how much he was looking forward to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and how heartbreaking it is for him to miss out, especially given his recent form," said National Selection Committee member Asad Shafiq. "However, his long-term fitness remains our priority."
Another notable exclusion is top-order batter Abdullah Shafique, opening the door for Babar Azam to slot into one of the premier batting positions.
Veteran Fakhar Zaman, who played a starring role in the 2017 final with a scintillating century (114 off 106 balls) against India, has been recalled. Joining him are Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel, reinforcing the squad’s depth.
Batting Lineup and Strategy
According to Asad Shafiq, Fakhar Zaman's opening partner is yet to be finalized, with Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel both in contention.
"Babar is well-versed in opening, especially in T20Is, and showed his adaptability in the Cape Town Test. The decision will hinge on pitch conditions, opposition, and match-day strategy," he added.
Preparations and Coaching Setup
Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will participate in a tri-series featuring South Africa and New Zealand. Aaqib Javed remains the Interim Coach after Gary Kirsten’s departure last October.
Full Pakistan Squad:
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Group Stage Fixtures:
19 February – Pakistan vs New Zealand (Karachi)
23 February – Pakistan vs India (Dubai)
27 February – Pakistan vs Bangladesh (Rawalpindi)
The highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals India on February 23 in Dubai is expected to be the marquee fixture of the group stage. With an exciting squad in place, Pakistan will be eager to reclaim their dominance on home soil and beyond.