Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025 | Fans and Experts Question PCB’s Strategy as Deadline Approaches

Pakistan, as the host nation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, has found itself under intense scrutiny for delaying the announcement of its squad. With the provisional squad deadline of January 12 already passed and the final squad deadline of February 13 fast approaching, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) remains the only board among the eight participating nations yet to finalize its team.

Uncertainty Surrounding Saim Ayub’s Fitness

A major factor contributing to the delay appears to be the fitness concerns of rising star Saim Ayub. The young left-hander, who injured his ankle during Pakistan’s successful tour of South Africa, is undergoing rehabilitation in London. PCB insiders have hinted that while Ayub’s chances of recovering in time for the tournament are slim, the board is willing to wait until the last moment to decide on his inclusion. Ayub has been instrumental in Pakistan’s recent successes, and his absence could disrupt the balance of the squad.

Former cricketer Basit Ali commented, “This delay isn’t about fear or hesitation; it’s about managing the uncertainties. Saim Ayub is a key player, and his potential absence forces selectors to rethink their combinations.”

Pakistan’s Likely Squad Composition

While the squad is largely expected to mirror the one that featured in recent tours to Australia and South Africa, changes are anticipated. Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq are likely to be reinstated as openers, adding stability and firepower at the top. Middle-order concerns persist, with selectors debating the inclusion of young talents like Tayyab Tahir and Salman Ali Agha alongside established names like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

Squad:

Babar Azam,Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Tayyab Tahir, Abdullah Shafique, Shadab Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem

Key Concerns: Batting Stability and Middle-Order Combinations

Pakistan’s batting lineup has been a topic of discussion, particularly the middle-order slots. These positions have struggled to consistently handle pace attacks in challenging conditions. The inclusion of experienced batters like Saud Shakeel could offer the stability needed in high-pressure games.

Selectors are also weighing the benefits of integrating emerging players like Tayyab Tahir, who have shown promise in domestic cricket. With players like Shan Masood and Khushdil Shah on standby, the PCB has backup options should injury or form issues arise.

Bowling: The Trump Card

Pakistan’s pace attack is expected to be its most formidable weapon in the Champions Trophy. Led by Shaheen Afridi, the pace quartet—comprising Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain offers a mix of speed, swing, and death-bowling prowess. To counter spin-friendly conditions, the squad is likely to include spinners like Shadab Khan, Abrar Ahmed, and young prospect Sufiyan Muqeem.

Former Players Voice Concerns

The delay in squad announcement has drawn criticism from former cricketers and fans. Critics argue that the indecision reflects poor planning, particularly when Pakistan is hosting the tournament. Basit Ali noted, “As the host nation, we should set the standard, not lag behind. This delay raises questions about the PCB’s preparation strategy.”

Countdown to the Champions Trophy

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and the UAE. As the cricketing world watches, Pakistan faces the dual challenge of finalizing a competitive squad while managing player fitness and form. With the announcement expected soon, fans remain hopeful that the PCB will field a team capable of reclaiming glory on home soil.

Stay tuned for live updates as Pakistan prepares to finalize its squad for the Champions Trophy.