The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled its 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.
Mohammad Rizwan has been named captain, leading a squad that includes notable recalls for Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf, Saud Shakeel, and Khushdil Shah. Among the selected players, only Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Faheem Ashraf remain from the team that secured Pakistan’s historic 2017 Champions Trophy victory.
Preparation Through Tri-Nation Series
Before the tournament, the team will participate in a tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa, hosted in Lahore and Karachi. This series will allow the squad to refine its strategies ahead of the global competition.
The PCB has set February 11 as the deadline for any squad modifications. After this date, player replacements will only be permitted for medical reasons, subject to ICC approval.
Squad Changes & Selection Approach
Compared to Pakistan’s last ODI series against South Africa in December 2024, four changes have been made. Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim have been left out, making way for Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf, Saud Shakeel, and Khushdil Shah.
National selector Asad Shafiq emphasized that the selection panel followed a “horses for courses” strategy, prioritizing players who have consistently performed well in domestic cricket under similar conditions and are well-suited for an international tournament.
“Our objective was to pick players who have demonstrated consistency and adaptability in home conditions and against top-tier opponents. This squad provides a well-balanced mix of experience and skill, ensuring we are fully prepared for the Champions Trophy,” Shafiq stated.
Key Inclusions & Omissions
The return of Fakhar Zaman stands out as a major inclusion. The left-handed opener, famous for his match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, has regained form after an extended injury layoff. His standout performance in the Champions T20 Cup 2024, where he scored 303 runs at a strike rate of 132, proved his readiness for international competition.
Pakistan’s spin attack will be led by mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed, with Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha providing additional support. Meanwhile, the team boasts a strong pace battery featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain.
A significant omission from the squad is Saim Ayub, who was ruled out due to an ankle injury. Asad Shafiq acknowledged Ayub’s disappointment but assured that the decision was made in the player’s best long-term interests, prioritizing his recovery over any immediate selection.
Upcoming Schedule & Training Camp
Pakistan will use the tri-nation ODI series as a crucial opportunity to evaluate player form and team combinations before the tournament.
“This series will help us finalize our strategy, assess player performances, and make the necessary adjustments. It’s the ideal preparation before we defend the Champions Trophy on home soil,” Shafiq added.
Coaching & Support Staff
The squad will be under the guidance of an interim coaching team, headed by Aqib Javed. The support staff includes:
- Azhar Mahmood – Assistant Coach
- Shahid Aslam – Batting Coach
- Mohammad Masroor – Fielding Coach
- Abdul Rehman – Spin Bowling Coach
- Cliffe Deacon – Physiotherapist
- Drikus Saiman – Strength & Conditioning Coach
The team will assemble in Lahore on February 3 to begin their training camp ahead of the upcoming matches.
Pakistan’s Fixtures
Tri-Nation ODI Series
📅 Feb 8 – vs New Zealand, Lahore
📅 Feb 12 – vs South Africa, Karachi
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (Group Stage)
📅 Feb 19 – vs New Zealand, Karachi
📅 Feb 23 – vs India, Dubai
📅 Feb 27 – vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, Pakistan aims to put forth a strong performance on home soil in their quest for Champions Trophy glory. 🏆🇵🇰