Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf Back in Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan has named its squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with two notable inclusions: Fakhar Zaman and Faheem Ashraf. Both players have made their return to the national team after significant absences, adding experience and strength to the squad.

Key Changes in the Squad

Fakhar Zaman’s return to the team is significant, especially after his fallout with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following a social media post in October 2024. Fakhar hasn’t played in ODIs since the 2023 World Cup, and his inclusion marks a much-needed comeback for the experienced opener.

Faheem Ashraf, who has not played international cricket since 2023, also returns to the fold. His recall adds depth to the all-rounders’ department, particularly after his strong domestic performances.

The squad also includes Khushdil Shah and Saud Shakeel, who have been retained for the Champions Trophy.

Saim Ayub’s Injury Setback

Pakistan’s top-order batsman Saim Ayub will unfortunately miss out on the tournament due to an ankle injury sustained during the Cape Town Test. Although Ayub was initially expected to return within six weeks, the PCB confirmed that he would still be “at least four weeks” away from being fully fit.

This leaves a gap in the opening slot, and the selection panel has already indicated that Fakhar Zaman will likely partner with either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel at the top. Babar Azam, known for his consistent form in all formats, has experience opening in T20Is and recently excelled in the Cape Town Test, scoring two half-centuries in Ayub’s absence.

Abdullah Shafique Left Out

Abdullah Shafique, who has struggled for form, has been dropped from the squad. During the ODI series against South Africa, Shafique became the first player to be dismissed for a duck in every match of a series. This poor form has cost him a place in the final squad, making room for Fakhar Zaman and Saud Shakeel.

A Balanced Squad

Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy reflects a balance between youth and experience. The team retains its pace-heavy attack, featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain. The only specialist spinner in the squad is Abrar Ahmed, with Shadab Khan and Sufiyan Muqeem missing out.

The selection panel has emphasized the flexibility of the squad, which allows the team to adjust its approach depending on conditions and opposition. Each player has been selected with a specific role in mind, providing the captain with a wide range of options.

Final Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Here is the complete squad for Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign:

• Fakhar Zaman
• Babar Azam
• Kamran Ghulam
• Saud Shakeel
• Tayyab Tahir
• Faheem Ashraf
• Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper)
• Khushdil Shah
• Salman Agha
• Usman Khan
• Abrar Ahmed
• Shaheen Shah Afridi
• Mohammad Hasnain
• Haris Rauf
• Naseem Shah

Pakistan’s Opening Matches in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

• Pakistan vs New Zealand: February 19, Karachi
• Pakistan vs India: February 23, Dubai
• Pakistan vs Bangladesh: February 27, Rawalpindi

With a squad full of promise and experience, Pakistan will look to make a strong start in the tournament. The Pakistan-India clash on February 23 in Dubai is expected to be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament.

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