Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf Return to Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, marking the return of Fakhar Zaman and Faheem Ashraf to the national side. Read more
Lahore, Pakistan – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, marking the return of Fakhar Zaman and Faheem Ashraf to the national side. The same squad will also participate in the ODI tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand as part of their preparation.
Fakhar Zaman's recall comes after his dispute with the PCB over a social media post in October 2024, while Faheem Ashraf returns to international cricket after last playing in 2023. The squad also includes Khushdil Shah and Saud Shakeel, with the selection panel emphasizing a "horses for courses" approach.
However, the biggest setback for Pakistan is the absence of Saim Ayub, who remains at least four weeks away from recovering after sustaining an ankle fracture in the Cape Town Test. Meanwhile, Abdullah Shafique, who endured a torrid run of form with three consecutive ducks against South Africa, has been left out.
With Fakhar back in the squad, Pakistan's opening combination remains flexible. Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel could partner with Fakhar at the top, depending on conditions, opposition, and strategy, according to Asad Shafiq, a member of the selection panel.
Pakistan has retained its pace-heavy attack, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain leading the bowling lineup. Abrar Ahmed remains the only specialist spinner, with no place for Shadab Khan or Sufiyan Muqeem.
The Champions Trophy campaign kicks off for Pakistan against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, followed by a high-stakes clash against India in Dubai. They will then face Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.
Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025:
Batsmen: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir
All-rounders: Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha
Wicketkeepers: Mohammad Rizwan (capt, wk), Usman Khan
Bowlers: Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah
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