Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized the squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to commence on February 19, 2025. The team comprises a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, aiming to defend their title successfully.
Squad Overview
Mohammad Rizwan (c,wk), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Pakistan’s Group Stage Fixtures
19 February – Pakistan vs New Zealand, Karachi
23 February – Pakistan vs India, Dubai
27 February – Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
Key Details
Shaheen Shah Afridi: The left-arm pacer has been included in the squad, bringing his experience and skill to the team. His participation is crucial for Pakistan’s pace attack.
Saim Ayub: The young opener, who was initially part of the squad, has been ruled out due to a right ankle fracture sustained during the Test series against South Africa. His recovery timeline does not align with the Champions Trophy schedule.
Fakhar Zaman: The seasoned opener has been included in the squad, adding depth and experience to the batting lineup.
Haris Rauf: The fast bowler returns to the squad, bolstering the pace attack with his pace and aggression.
The final squad reflects a strategic mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, aiming to deliver a strong performance in the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Saim Ayub ruled out due to injury
Saim Ayub, the promising Pakistani opener, has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy due to a right ankle fracture. The injury occurred on January 3, 2025, during the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town. While fielding in the deep third-man region, Ayub lost his balance and twisted his ankle, leading to a fracture confirmed by an MRI.
This injury is a significant setback for Pakistan, as Ayub has been in exceptional form, notably scoring three centuries and one half-century in just nine ODIs. His aggressive and innovative batting style had made him a key figure in Pakistan’s plans for the Champions Trophy.
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Good wishes for Pakistan team
No saim