Fakhar Zaman has been recalled to Pakistan’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy, marking his return after a fallout with the PCB over a social media post in October 2024. Allrounder Faheem Ashraf has also been included, making his first international appearance since 2023. Khushdil Shah and Saud Shakeel have earned spots as well.
The same squad will also play in the ODI tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand as preparation for the Champions Trophy.
Saim Ayub Still Weeks Away from Return
As feared, Saim Ayub remains unavailable due to the ankle fracture he suffered in the Cape Town Test. Initially ruled out for six weeks, his recovery has been slower than expected, with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirming he is still at least four weeks away from full fitness.
Abdullah Shafique Dropped After Poor Form
Opener Abdullah Shafique has been left out following his disastrous ODI series against South Africa, where he became the first player to register a duck in every match of a bilateral series.
With his omission, Pakistan will have a new opening pair, with Fakhar likely to partner either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel. The PCB cited Babar’s success as a Test opener as a key factor in this decision.
“Fakhar’s opening partner could be either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel, depending on conditions, opposition, and match strategy,” said selection panel member Asad Shafiq.
Pace-Heavy Attack, No Shadab Khan
Pakistan has retained a pace-dominated bowling attack, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain forming a formidable quartet. Abrar Ahmed is the only specialist spinner, while Shadab Khan and Sufiyan Muqeem have been left out.
Asad Shafiq highlighted the squad’s adaptability:
“One of the standout qualities of this side is its flexibility—an essential trait in modern cricket. We believe this squad has the right mix of youth and experience, offering the captain versatile options.”
Faheem Ashraf’s Surprise Recall
Allrounder Faheem Ashraf’s selection comes despite limited ODI appearances recently. Though his Champions Cup performance in September was underwhelming, strong domestic performances in the President Cup helped him earn an unexpected recall.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Fixtures
February 27: vs Bangladesh in Rawalpindi
February 19: vs New Zealand in Karachi
February 23: vs India in Dubai
Rashid Latif Calls on Pakistan to Play Aggressive Cricket in Champions Trophy
Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Rizwan (capt, wk), Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah.
Pakistan will be hoping this squad delivers as they aim for glory in the first ICC tournament hosted by the country since 1996.ions.
