Pakistan Unveils Squad for Champions Trophy 2025: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken an innovative approach to unveiling the 15-member squad for the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025. As the defending champions, having triumphed in 2017 against India, Pakistan is gearing up for another intense battle on the global stage.
The Creative Squad Announcement
Pakistan Unveils Squad for Champions Trophy 2025: In a unique move, the PCB involved players from Pakistan’s victorious 2017 Champions Trophy squad to introduce the current lineup. A video released by the board featured retired and non-selected players from the 2017 squad announcing the fresh faces in the team.
Notable inclusions such as Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman were highlighted in the video. However, former cricketer Ahmad Shahzad’s remarks on social media sparked debate. Despite being out of favor with the selectors, he criticized the inclusion of certain players, such as Usman Khan, and questioned the lack of quality spinners.
“It’s surprising that there’s only one genuine spinner in the squad, especially considering the conditions in Pakistan and the UAE. Is this the right approach? Two fresh openers have been introduced, Fakhar is making a return, yet it’s uncertain who will partner him at the top. Usman, Faheem, and Usman have been recalled after the T20 series in Bangladesh, despite not featuring in recent ODIs. This selection strategy raises several questions.” — Ahmad Shahzad on social media.
Key Changes in Leadership
The team will be led by Mohammad Rizwan, who assumed captaincy after Babar Azam stepped down following the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Rizwan’s leadership has been impressive, and he now faces the challenge of guiding Pakistan to defend their title in the Champions Trophy.
Tri-Series: The Perfect Preparation
To fine-tune their preparations, Pakistan will participate in a tri-series with South Africa and New Zealand. The tournament kicks off on February 8, with Pakistan facing New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
The other key fixtures include:
- New Zealand vs. South Africa – February 10
- Pakistan vs. South Africa – February 12 (Karachi)
- Final – February 14
This tri-series serves as an important warm-up before the Champions Trophy opener.
Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Here’s a look at Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming tournament:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir
- Faheem Ashraf
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain, Wicketkeeper)
- Khushdil Shah
- Salman Agha
- Usman Khan
- Abrar Ahmed
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Haris Rauf
- Naseem Shah
Final Thoughts: A Squad Full of Promise
With a mix of experienced players and exciting newcomers, Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 looks promising. While some selections remain controversial, the upcoming tri-series will be crucial in shaping the final playing XI. Fans eagerly await to see whether Pakistan can replicate their 2017 triumph and continue their dominance on the world stage.