Pakistan Announces 15-Member Squad for Champions Trophy 2025 and Tri-Nation ODI Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, with Salman Ali Agha as vice-captain, the squad boasts a balanced mix of experience and emerging talent.

Squad Composition

The squad includes four formidable fast bowlers: Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, and Naseem Shah, while Abrar Ahmed will spearhead the spin attack. Notably, only three players from Pakistan’s victorious 2017 Champions Trophy squad remain: Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman.

Preparations through Tri-Nation Series

Ahead of the ICC event, this squad will also compete in a tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa in Lahore and Karachi. This series will serve as a crucial preparatory phase for Pakistan’s campaign in the Champions Trophy.

Squad Changes and Player Comebacks

The PCB has made four changes from the last ODI squad that played against South Africa. Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim have been replaced by Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel.

One of the major highlights is the return of Fakhar Zaman, who famously scored a match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India. Fakhar, who had been sidelined due to injuries since June 2024, has now fully recovered and is set to make a strong comeback.

Potential Opening Combination

Asad Shafiq, a member of the National Selection Committee, hinted that Babar Azam might open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman. The final decision, however, will depend on match conditions and team strategy.

“Fakhar’s opening partner could be either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel, depending on various factors such as conditions, opposition, and match strategy. Babar has ample experience opening in T20Is and has shown his prowess in Tests as well,” said Asad Shafiq.

Injury Concerns

Saim Ayub, who suffered an ankle injury during the Cape Town Test, has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy as he continues his recovery.

“Saim was keen to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, but his injury has not healed sufficiently. We are prioritizing his long-term health and expect him to make a strong comeback in future tournaments,” added Asad Shafiq.

Pakistan Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

• Batters: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir
• All-rounders: Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha
• Wicketkeeper: Mohammad Rizwan (C), Usman Khan
• Bowlers: Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain

With a well-rounded squad and an ideal mix of young and experienced players, Pakistan looks poised to make a strong impact in the Champions Trophy 2025.