The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is in the final stages of confirming its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to kick off next month. A major decision hinges on the availability of young talent Saim Ayub, who is recovering from an ankle injury. If Ayub is deemed fit, he will be part of the squad for both the tri-series and the Champions Trophy. In case he isn’t ready, selectors have already devised a backup plan.
Key players like Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan have been ruled out of contention, while Fakhar Zaman has secured his spot. The inclusion of Imam-ul-Haq and rising star Haseebullah is still being discussed. Test captain Shan Masood is also under consideration as a replacement for Ayub, though his performance in the current Test series against the West Indies will likely determine his selection.
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Pakistan’s squad will rely on experienced names such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, and Tayyab Tahir. On the bowling front, the pace attack will be led by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, with additional support from Mohammad Hasnain, Kamran Ghulam, and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed. Young talent Sufiyan Muqeem is also expected to be included.
With the Champions Trophy just around the corner, Pakistan remains the only team yet to officially announce its final squad. Initial names have been submitted to the ICC, but the final list must be confirmed by February 11. The tri-series, which begins on February 8, leaves a narrow window for adjustments.
The tournament, taking place from February 19 to March 9, will feature matches in Pakistan and Dubai. Pakistan is set to open its campaign against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, with a highly anticipated match against India scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
