The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is almost done choosing its team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which starts in just a few weeks. The prestigious event is set to start on February 19 and will have eight teams. Pakistan will hold games at three venues, and some games will also be held in Dubai.

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Pending Decisions and Fitness Concerns about Saim Ayub

One important choice that hasn’t been made yet is whether to include young hitter Saim Ayub, recovering from an ankle injury. His ability to play in the event will depend on how fit he is in the next few days. If Ayub is cleared, Pakistan will likely play in the tri-series and the Champions Trophy with the same team. However, selectors have a backup plan if he doesn’t improve in time.

As confirmed by the selectors, Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan will not be on the team. Veteran opener Fakhar Zaman, on the other hand, has earned his spot. There are still talks about including Imam-ul-Haq and the talented wicketkeeper-batsman Haseebullah. Test captain Shan Masood is also considered a possible replacement for Ayub. However, it will depend on his performance in the current Test series against the West Indies.

Core Players and Bowling Strength

Pakistan’s squad will include some of its most reliable players:

• Batting Line-Up: Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan are planned to be added to the opening order.
• Bowling Attack: The team will depend on its strong pace unit, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain. Kamran Ghulam, Abrar Ahmed (leg spinner), and Sufiyan Muqeem (young star) can all spin the ball.

Squad Deadline and Tri-Series Preparation

Pakistan is still the only team that hasn’t announced its Champions Trophy team. Initial names have been sent to the ICC, but the final team must be set by February 11. The tri-series, which includes Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand, starts on February 8, giving the managers a short time to make their choice.

Key Takeaways

Pakistan’s hopes at the Champions Trophy depend significantly on the PCB’s final squad choice. Pakistan wants to make a strong statement both at home and in Dubai. They have a mix of experienced players, up-and-coming stars, and the best pace attacks in the event. Fans can’t wait for the news, and everyone is looking to the PCB to see how they balance experience, fitness, and performance to make the best mix.