Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy was announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday. The team looks strong in the fast bowling department, but there are two major concerns. Firstly, there is only one main spinner in the team, and secondly, there is only one specialist opener. Let’s take a look at what Pakistan’s playing XI could look like for the tournament.
Opening Pair
According to the national selectors, Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel will open the innings with Fakhar Zaman. Pakistan is the defending champion of the Champions Trophy, having won the title in 2017 by defeating India in the final.
Middle Order & Finishers
For the middle order, Saud Shakeel is expected to bat at number three, followed by captain and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan at number four. The finishers for Pakistan will include Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, and left-hand batsman Khushdil Shah. These three players will be responsible for finishing the innings.
Bowling Attack
The fast bowling department looks very strong with the pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. The only specialist spinner in the team will be Abrar Ahmed. Salman Ali Agha and Khushdil Shah could share the fifth bowling role.
Practice Matches Before the Tournament
Pakistan is set to play a tri-nation series at home against New Zealand and South Africa starting from February 8. According to sources, Pakistan will likely field this same playing XI in their opening match to test their players ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan’s Probable Playing XI for the 2025 Champions Trophy
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicketkeeper)
- Kamran Ghulam
- Salman Ali Agha
- Khushdil Shah
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
