Pakistan Announces Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially unveiled the 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. The same squad will also participate in a tri-nation ODI series featuring New Zealand and South Africa in Lahore and Karachi as part of their preparation for the prestigious tournament.

Key Inclusions and Exclusions

Explosive opener Fakhar Zaman, all-rounder Khushdil Shah, and Faheem Ashraf make a comeback to the national squad. Their return replaces Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim, who were part of the last ODI series played in South Africa in late 2024. The squad, led by captain Mohammad Rizwan with Salman Ali Agha as his deputy, features three players from Pakistan’s title-winning squad in the 2017 edition—Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Faheem Ashraf.

Following their performance in the ICC Men’s 50-over World Cup 2023, Pakistan has secured series victories against Australia (2-1), Zimbabwe (2-1), and South Africa (3-0), demonstrating solid form ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Pakistan’s 15-Member Squad

Batters: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir
All-rounders: Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (Vice-captain)
Wicketkeeper-batters: Mohammad Rizwan (Captain), Usman Khan
Spinner: Abrar Ahmed
Fast bowlers: Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Player Comebacks and Selection Rationale

Fakhar Zaman, who played a crucial role in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, returns after recovering from an injury that sidelined him since June 2024. He showcased his form in the Champions T20 Cup 2024, finishing as the third-highest run-scorer with 303 runs at a strike rate exceeding 132. His overall ODI record stands at 3,492 runs in 82 matches, with 11 centuries and a strike rate of 93.4.

Saud Shakeel earns a recall after consistent performances in domestic cricket and Test matches at home. Having last played an ODI during the 2023 World Cup against England, he has since impressed in Tests with two centuries and two fifties in 13 innings.

Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah add valuable depth to the squad. Faheem, having last played an ODI in September 2023, has been among the most consistent domestic performers. Khushdil, last seen in ODI action in August 2022, has been included after strong domestic performances, contributing 176 runs in the Champions One-Day Cup and 132 runs with nine wickets in the Champions T20 Cup.

Selectors’ Perspective

Chief Selector Asad Shafiq emphasized that the squad has been chosen based on a “horses for courses” approach, ensuring players suited for home conditions. He highlighted the team’s flexibility and the mix of experienced and emerging players.

“Abrar Ahmed will spearhead the spin department, with support from Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha, while Faheem Ashraf adds an all-round option in the pace attack,” said Shafiq. “Fakhar Zaman’s inclusion strengthens our top order, given his aggressive style and match-winning ability. Saud Shakeel’s selection is based on his ability to build innings and his recent Test performances.”

Shafiq also noted that the team management is closely monitoring Saim Ayub’s recovery from an ankle injury. Although he has not been included in the squad, the selectors remain hopeful about his return to international cricket.

Preparation for the Tournament

Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will fine-tune its strategies in a tri-nation ODI series, facing New Zealand and South Africa. The competition will provide a final opportunity to assess team combinations and tactical approaches.

Pakistan’s ODI Schedule

Feb 8 – vs New Zealand, Lahore (Tri-nation series)
Feb 12 – vs South Africa, Karachi (Tri-nation series)
Feb 19 – vs New Zealand, Karachi (Champions Trophy)
Feb 23 – vs India, Dubai (Champions Trophy)
Feb 27 – vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi (Champions Trophy)

Support Staff for the Series and Champions Trophy

Team Manager: Naveed Akram Cheema
Team Operations Manager: Hina Munawar
Interim Head Coach: Aqib Javed
Assistant Coach: Azhar Mahmood
Batting Coach: Shahid Aslam
Fielding Coach: Mohammad Masroor
Spin Bowling Coach: Abdul Rehman
Physiotherapist: Cliffe Deacon
Strength and Conditioning Coach: Drikus Saiman
Team Analyst: Talha Butt
Security Manager: Irtiza Komail
Team Doctor: Dr Wajid Ali Rafai
Masseur: Sergio Basil Mullins
Media & Digital Manager: Syed Naeem Ahmad

Conclusion

Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 features a blend of experience and emerging talent. With the return of key players and a well-balanced unit, the team aims to capitalize on home conditions and mount a strong title defense. The upcoming tri-nation ODI series will serve as a crucial warm-up before the high-stakes global tournament begins.