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The final date to name the provisional teams for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 it’s January 12, and teams are racing against time to finalize their lineups. The tournament, starting on February 19, will be organized in a hybrid model, with Pakistan as the main host and India’s matches played in the United Arab Emirates due to political tensions between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) i Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This unique arrangement has added intrigue to what promises to be a competitive tournament.
Pakistan preparation for the Champions Trophy
The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is of paramount importance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the reigning champions, having clinched the title in 2017 in England, defeating India in the final. With its new white ball captain, Mohammad Rizwanleading the side, Pakistan have shown impressive form, recently whitewashing both Australia i south africa in the ODI series. However, injury concerns for some key players could affect their home campaign. Pakistan will look to capitalize on the flat batting pitches at home, but their success depends on having a fit and balanced side.
Here is Pakistan Squad Prediction for Champions Trophy 2025
1. Saim Ayub (first-rate batter)
One of Pakistan’s most prominent players in recent months, Saim Ayubfaces an uncertain path to the Champions Trophy. The young left-hander, who has taken the cricketing world by storm with his phenomenal form in ODIs, suffered a fractured ankle during the second Test against South Africa. This injury has ruled him out for at least six weeks, putting his participation in doubt.
Ayub’s ODI performance
- Matches played: 9
- centuries: 3
- fifties: 1
- Recent Contributions: Saim was instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against South Africa, scoring 235 runs in his last three ODIs.
If Saim remains unfit, Pakistan could lose a key player who has proved his worth on flat batting tracks. Even if he regains form just before the tournament, the lack of match practice could limit his effectiveness. In his absence, Imam-ul-Haq or Fakhar Zaman he is expected to act as an opener for the side Abdullah Shafiq.
2. Abdullah Shafique (Top Order Batsman)
Shafique is known for his compound batting technique and his ability to anchor the innings. With solid performances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable option at the top of the order. Its adaptability to different conditions will be vital on flat tracks that are easy to turn. Shafique’s role will be crucial to give Pakistan steady starts in the Champions Trophy.
3. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicketkeeper)
Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and leadership make him a key figure for Pakistan. As the new white-ball captain, Rizwan has excelled in guiding the team and maintaining his form with the bat. Its port control abilities add an edge, making it a complete package. Rizwan’s ability to steady innings under pressure will be invaluable in high-stakes matches.
4. Babar Azam (first order batter)
Babar Azam, one of the best batsmen in the world, will bear the brunt of Pakistan’s batting hopes. His exquisite stroke play and consistency make him the backbone of the batting line-up. Babar thrives in ODI cricket, and his performances at ICC events have always been remarkable. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial in dealing with difficult situations.
5. Irfan Khan (Top Order Batsman)
Irfan Khan, an up-and-coming talent, adds depth to Pakistan’s top order. With a strong national record, he has shown the ability to play long innings and handle pressure. His elegant batting style and ability to build partnerships make him a valuable asset. Irfan’s inclusion gives Pakistan flexibility to shape their batting strategy.
READ also: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finalists
6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle Order Batsman)
Tayyab Tahir is an aggressive middle-order batsman with a reputation for finishing games. Known for his counter-attacking ability, he can swing the momentum in Pakistan’s favor during the middle overs. His ability to adapt to different situations and his hitting prowess are key strengths. Tahir’s role will be vital to accelerate the run rate when needed.
7. Usman Khan (Middle Order Batsman)
Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan’s middle order with his attacking batting style. His ability to clear boundaries and handle high-pressure situations is a major asset. Usman’s recent performances in limited overs cricket have cemented his position in the squad. He is expected to play the role of a game changer in crunch time.
8. Salman Agha (All-rounder)
Salman Agha offers a balanced combination of solid batting and off-spin bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in team composition. Salman’s ability to play crucial innings in the lower-middle order and economical bowls make him a key asset. His performance in the Champions Trophy could provide the team with vital breakthroughs.
9. Kamran Ghulam (Middle Order Batsman)
Kamran Ghulam is a reliable batsman who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and step up when needed adds depth to the lineup. Kamran’s consistent domestic performances make him a player to watch. It could play a pivotal role in creating partnerships and ending games.
10. Mohammad Hasnain (Fast Bowler)
Mohammad Hasnain’s raw pace and ability to extract the bounce make him a threat on any surface. His ability to take early wickets will be crucial in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Hasnain’s recent control improvements and variations add to its effectiveness. He will play a key role in troubling the opposition batsmen with his fiery spells.
11. Sufiyan Muqeem (Left Arm Wrist Spinner)
Sufiyan Muqeem is a young and talented left arm wrist spinner who has impressed with his accuracy. His ability to contain runs and pick up wickets in the middle will be vital on spin-friendly tracks. Muqeem’s variation and control make him a valuable addition to the squad. His performance in the Champions Trophy could establish him as a rising star.
12. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)
Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s preferred bowler for pace and aggression. His ability to bowl at high speed and deliver accurate yorkers makes him lethal at the death. Rauf’s ability to pick up crucial wickets under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. His role in leading the pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi will be pivotal.
13. Usama Mir (leg spinner)
Usama Mir is an attacking leg-spinner who brings a wicket-taking option in the middles. His ability to fool batsmen with flight and sharp spin makes him a key player. Usama’s recent performances have shown his match-winning potential in white-ball cricket. He will play a crucial role in breaking partnerships during the Champions Trophy.
14. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)
Naseem Shah’s lethal pace and swing make him a formidable bowler with the new ball. His ability to bowl consistent lines and lengths adds control to Pakistan’s attack. Naseem has become a reliable bowler in high-pressure ICC events and situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial in dismantling the opposition top order.
15. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)
Shaheen Afridi, the spearhead of Pakistan, is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball. His deadly inswingers and timely yorkers make him a match winner in ODIs. Shaheen’s performances in ICC tournaments have been consistently top notch. As a senior bowler, his role will be pivotal in leading the pace attack.
