Pakistan announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on January 31, featuring some notable comebacks and key absences.
Fakhar Zaman Returns After Injury and Controversy
Fakhar Zaman makes a return after last playing in the 2023 World Cup against England. He was sidelined due to injury and a controversial tweet but has now earned a recall. Fakhar played a crucial role in Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy victory and famously scored a century in the final against India.
Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah Make Comebacks
Rana Faheem Ashraf also returns after impressing in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The 31-year-old all-rounder last played for Pakistan in the 2023 Asia Cup before being dropped. His performances in franchise cricket seem to have convinced the selectors.
Similarly, Khushdil Shah is back in the squad after an extended absence—his last international appearance was in 2022 against the Netherlands. He has been in excellent form in both the BPL and domestic cricket, and Pakistan will hope he quickly adapts to the international stage.
Saim Ayub Ruled Out Due to Injury
Pakistan will be without young opener Saim Ayub, who suffered an ankle injury during the second Test against South Africa. In his absence, Saud Shakeel and Tayyab Tahir have secured their spots. Saud, known for his resilience in Test cricket, might be asked to open alongside Fakhar Zaman, as hinted by selector Asad Shafiq. Tayyab Tahir, on the other hand, has built a strong reputation for playing spin in domestic cricket, which could be valuable in subcontinental conditions.
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Pakistan’s Group Stage Matches and Home Advantage
Pakistan will have the advantage of home conditions, playing two of their group-stage matches in Pakistan and one in the UAE, where many of their players have ample experience.
• February 19 – vs. New Zealand (Karachi)
• February 23 – vs. India (Dubai)
• February 27 – vs. Bangladesh (Rawalpindi)
To qualify for the Super 4 stage, Pakistan will need to win at least two out of these three matches.
Mohammad Rizwan to Lead Pakistan in His First ICC Event as Captain
This tournament marks Mohammad Rizwan’s first ICC event as captain, with Salman Ali Agha as his deputy. Pakistan will be looking to defend their title, with three members from the 2017 Champions Trophy-winning squad—Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, and Faheem Ashraf—still in the team.
Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025:
1. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
2. Salman Ali Agha (Vice-Captain)
3. Babar Azam
4. Fakhar Zaman
5. Kamran Ghulam
6. Saud Shakeel
7. Tayyab Tahir
8. Faheem Ashraf
9. Khushdil Shah
10. Usman Khan (Wicketkeeper)
11. Abrar Ahmed
12. Shaheen Shah Afridi
13. Haris Rauf
14. Mohammad Hasnain
15. Naseem Shah
Selection Committee’s Thoughts on the Squad
Selection committee member Asad Shafiq emphasized the squad’s versatility and balance:
“One of the standout qualities of this side is its flexibility—an essential trait in modern-day cricket. We are confident that this squad strikes the right balance between youth and experience and has all bases covered. Each player has been chosen with a clear role in mind, ensuring the captain has versatile options at his disposal.”
With the advantage of familiar conditions and a well-balanced squad, Pakistan will aim for a strong title defense in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
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