Lahore (Web Desk/ Agencies): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday revealed 15-member squad for the highly anticipated ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.
The team will also compete in a tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa in the lead-up to the tournament.
The squad has seen a few changes since the last series in South Africa, with four fresh faces making their way into the mix as Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, and Saud Shakeel have all been brought back into the fold.
Among the new additions, Fakhar Zaman’s return is a significant boost. The explosive opener, who has been sidelined due to injury and illness since June 2024, has returned to full fitness and form. His recent performances in domestic competitions, including a stellar T20 campaign in December 2024, demonstrate his readiness to make an impact on the global stage.
Zaman’s aggressive batting at the top of the order will be a key asset for Pakistan, especially with his experience in high-pressure situations, such as his match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final.
In addition to Zaman, all-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah rejoin the squad after solid domestic campaigns.
Faheem, known for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket and provides valuable balance to the squad.
Similarly, Khushdil, who has been in excellent form in domestic one-day and T20 tournaments, adds depth to the middle order and offers a useful option with the ball.
The selectors have also opted to include Saud Shakeel, a player who has impressed with his recent Test performances. His composed and calculated approach to batting will add stability to Pakistan’s middle order, while his ability to adapt to different formats makes him a versatile option for the squad.
The leadership responsibilities will once again fall to Mohammad Rizwan, with Salman Ali Agha as vice-captain.
Rizwan, known for his consistency and calm under pressure, will be crucial in guiding the team through the pressure of a major international tournament. Alongside him, the experienced Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi will play central roles in leading the team’s batting and bowling attacks, respectively.
The squad also features several promising youngsters, including fast bowlers Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, and Mohammad Hasnain, who will be key in providing the pace attack alongside Shaheen.
The spin department will be led by the enigmatic Abrar Ahmed, a mystery spinner who has impressed with his ability to baffle opponents. Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha provide useful spin options, ensuring the squad has plenty of flexibility in terms of tactics.
The upcoming tri-nation series will be an important warm-up for Pakistan, allowing them to fine-tune their strategies before the Champions Trophy. The series will offer valuable match practice against two formidable sides, New Zealand and South Africa, and give the squad the chance to work out any final kinks before the main event.
With a blend of experience, youth, and versatility, Pakistan is aiming to defend its Champions Trophy title at home.
The squad’s balance of aggressive top-order batsmen, experienced all-rounders, and a potent bowling attack gives them a solid foundation to challenge for another major trophy on home soil.
The PCB has until February 11 to make any changes, but once the deadline passes, the squad will be final unless there are medical replacements approved by the ICC. The team is scheduled to assemble in Lahore on 3 February to begin their preparations for the series and the tournament ahead.
The Squad:
Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Mohammad Rizwan (captain, wk), Usman Khan (wk), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Upcoming tri-nation ODIs:
Feb 8 Pakistan v New Zealand, Lahore (tri-nation ODI series)
Feb 12 Pakistan v South Africa, Karachi (tri-nation ODI series)
ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule:
February 19: Pakistan v New Zealand, Karachi, Pakistan
February 20: Bangladesh v India, Dubai
February 21: Afghanistan v South Africa, Karachi, Pakistan
February 22: Australia v England, Lahore, Pakistan
February 23: Pakistan v India, Dubai
February 24: Bangladesh v New Zealand, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
February 25: Australia v South Africa, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
February 26: Afghanistan v England, Lahore, Pakistan
February 27: Pakistan v Bangladesh, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
February 28: Afghanistan v Australia, Lahore, Pakistan
March 1: South Africa v England, Karachi, Pakistan
March 2: New Zealand v India, Dubai
March 4: Semi-final 1, Dubai
March 5: Semi-final 2, Lahore, Pakistan
March 9: Final, Lahore (unless India qualify, else it will be played in Dubai)
March 10: Reserve day
*Every contest will be scheduled as a day-night fixture
