The final date for naming the provisional squads for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is January 12, and teams are racing against time to finalize their line-ups. The tournament, starting February 19, will be hosted in a hybrid model, with Pakistan as the primary host and India’s matches played in the UAE due to political tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This unique arrangement has added intrigue to what promises to be a competitive tournament.
Pakistan’s preparation for the Champions Trophy
The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is of paramount importance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2017 in England, defeating India in the final. With their new white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, leading the side, Pakistan has displayed impressive form, recently whitewashing both Australia and South Africa in ODI series. However, injury concerns to some key players could impact their campaign on home soil. Pakistan will look to capitalize on the flat batting tracks at home, but their success depends on fielding a fit and balanced squad.
Here’s predicted Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025
1. Saim Ayub (Top Order Batter)
One of the standout players for Pakistan in recent months, Saim Ayub, faces an uncertain road to the Champions Trophy. The young left-hander, who has taken the cricketing world by storm with his phenomenal form in ODIs, suffered a fractured ankle during the second Test against South Africa. This injury has ruled him out for a minimum of six weeks, casting doubt over his participation.
Ayub’s ODI Performances
- Matches Played: 9
- Centuries: 3
- Fifties: 1
- Recent Contributions: Saim was instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against South Africa, scoring 235 runs in his last three ODIs.
If Saim remains unfit, Pakistan might lose a key player who has proven his mettle on flat batting tracks. Even if he regains fitness just before the tournament, a lack of match practice could limit his effectiveness. In his absence, Imam-ul-Haq or Fakhar Zaman expected to step in as an opener alongside Abdullah Shafique.
2. Abdullah Shafique (Top-Order Batter)
Shafique is known for his composed batting technique and ability to anchor the innings. With solid performances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable option at the top of the order. His adaptability to different conditions will be vital on flat and spin-friendly tracks. Shafique’s role will be crucial in providing Pakistan with steady starts in the Champions Trophy.
3. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicketkeeper)
Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and leadership make him a key figure for Pakistan. As the new white-ball captain, Rizwan has excelled in guiding the team and maintaining his form with the bat. His wicketkeeping skills add an edge, making him a complete package. Rizwan’s ability to stabilize the innings under pressure will be invaluable in high-stakes matches.
4. Babar Azam (Top-Order Batter)
Babar Azam, one of the world’s best batters, will carry the weight of Pakistan’s batting hopes. His exquisite stroke play and consistency make him the backbone of the batting lineup. Babar thrives in ODI cricket, and his performances in ICC events have always been noteworthy. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial in navigating tough situations.
5. Irfan Khan (Top-Order Batter)
Irfan Khan, a promising talent, adds depth to Pakistan’s top order. With a strong domestic record, he has shown the ability to play long innings and handle pressure. His elegant batting style and knack for building partnerships make him a valuable asset. Irfan’s inclusion offers Pakistan flexibility in shaping their batting strategy.
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6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle-Order Batter)
Tayyab Tahir is an aggressive middle-order batter with a reputation for finishing games. Known for his ability to counterattack, he can shift the momentum in Pakistan’s favor during the middle overs. His adaptability to different situations and spin-hitting prowess are key strengths. Tahir’s role will be vital in accelerating the run rate when required.
7. Usman Khan (Middle-Order Batter)
Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan’s middle order with his attacking batting style. His ability to clear boundaries and handle high-pressure situations is a significant asset. Usman’s recent performances in limited-overs cricket have solidified his position in the squad. He is expected to play the role of a game-changer in crunch moments.
8. Salman Agha (All-Rounder)
Salman Agha offers a balanced combination of solid batting and off-spin bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in team composition. Salman’s ability to play crucial innings in the lower-middle order and bowl economical overs makes him a key asset. His performance in the Champions Trophy could provide the team with vital breakthroughs.
9. Kamran Ghulam (Middle-Order Batter)
Kamran Ghulam is a dependable batter who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate when needed adds depth to the lineup. Kamran’s consistent domestic performances make him a player to watch. He could play a pivotal role in building partnerships and finishing games.
10. Mohammad Hasnain (Fast Bowler)
Mohammad Hasnain’s raw pace and ability to extract bounce make him a threat on any surface. His knack for taking early wickets will be crucial in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Hasnain’s recent improvements in control and variations add to his effectiveness. He will play a key role in unsettling opposition batters with his fiery spells.
11. Sufiyan Muqeem (Left-Arm Wrist Spinner)
Sufiyan Muqeem is a young and talented left-arm wrist spinner who has impressed with his accuracy. His ability to contain runs and pick up wickets in the middle overs will be vital on spin-friendly tracks. Muqeem’s variation and control make him a valuable addition to the squad. His performance in the Champions Trophy could establish him as a rising star.
12. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)
Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s go-to bowler for pace and aggression. His ability to bowl at high speeds and deliver accurate yorkers makes him lethal at the death. Rauf’s knack for picking up crucial wickets under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. His role in leading the pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi will be pivotal.
13. Usama Mir (Leg-Spinner)
Usama Mir is an attacking leg-spinner who brings a wicket-taking option to the middle overs. His ability to deceive batters with flight and sharp turn makes him a key player. Usama’s recent performances have showcased his match-winning potential in white-ball cricket. He will play a crucial role in breaking partnerships during the Champions Trophy.
14. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)
Naseem Shah’s lethal pace and swing make him a formidable bowler with the new ball. His ability to bowl consistent lines and lengths adds control to Pakistan’s attack. Naseem has emerged as a dependable bowler in ICC events and pressure situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial in dismantling opposition top orders.
15. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)
Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s spearhead, is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball. His deadly inswingers and pinpoint yorkers make him a match-winner in ODIs. Shaheen’s performances in ICC tournaments have consistently been top-notch. As a senior bowler, his role will be instrumental in leading the pace attack.
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