crickets24 Crickets24 offers the latest cricket news, men & women series, match schedules, ICC rankings, champions trophy, lives matches updates for both men & women, domestics & league cricket, IPL, PSL, BPL, & BBL. Follow Crickets24 today!
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the Tri-Nation ODI Series featuring New Zealand and South Africa. The tournament will begin on February 19, 2025, with Pakistan playing the opening match against New Zealand in Karachi.
Key Inclusions and Exclusions in Pakistan Squad
Pakistan has made four changes to its ODI squad compared to the team that played against South Africa last year. Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel have been recalled, replacing Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufiyan Muqeem.
Unfortunately, Saim Ayub misses out due to an ankle injury he suffered during the Test series against South Africa. PCB selectors emphasized that his long-term fitness is a priority.
Pakistan Squad – Champions Trophy 2025
| Category | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir |
| All-rounders | Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc) |
| Wicketkeepers | Mohammad Rizwan (c), Usman Khan |
| Spinner | Abrar Ahmed |
| Fast Bowlers | Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi |
This squad includes experienced players and rising stars, forming a well-balanced team ready to compete in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Leadership & Strategy
- Mohammad Rizwan will lead the team as captain, while Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as vice-captain.
- Pakistan will adopt a horses-for-courses strategy, ensuring players suited to the conditions are selected.
- The opening pair remains undecided, with selectors considering Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel to partner Fakhar Zaman at the top.
Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan’s Group & Fixtures
Pakistan has been placed in Group A, alongside India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.
Pakistan’s Group Matches:
- February 19 – vs New Zealand, National Bank Stadium, Karachi
- February 23 – vs India, Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- February 27 – vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Champions Trophy 2025: Tournament Venues & Format
The tournament will be played at three venues in Pakistan – Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi – while India’s matches will take place in Dubai. Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium will host the semi-finals and the final. However, if India qualifies for the final, it will be shifted to Dubai.
Pakistan’s Tri-Nation ODI Series Before Champions Trophy
Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will compete in a tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa, serving as crucial preparation for the main tournament.
Tri-Nation Series Fixtures:
- February 8 – vs New Zealand, Lahore
- February 12 – vs South Africa, Karachi
Selectors’ Statements
Pakistan’s chief selector Asad Shafiq highlighted the team’s balance and adaptability, stating:
“This squad has been carefully selected based on performance in domestic cricket and international experience. Our focus remains on building a team that can dominate in home conditions.”
Pakistan’s Strengths for Champions Trophy 2025
✅ Strong Top Order – Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Rizwan bring stability and experience.
✅ World-Class Pace Attack – Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah make up a lethal pace trio.
✅ Spin Variety – Abrar Ahmed’s mystery spin could be crucial in middle overs.
✅ Power-Hitters & All-rounders – Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah add depth.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan is entering the Champions Trophy 2025 as defending champions and hosts. With a well-balanced squad and a solid mix of experience and youth, the Men in Green will aim to retain their title. The highly anticipated Pakistan vs India clash on February 23 will be the highlight of the tournament.
Stay tuned for the latest cricket updates and match analysis at Crickets24.com! 🚀
