The opener Fakhar Zaman has been recalled for the Pakistan squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 aiming to defend the title at home.
The national selector Asad Shafique also confirmed that either Babar Azam or recalled Saud Shakeel will be the opening pair of Zaman in the tournament.
Only three players from Pakistan’s Champions Trophy winning squad in 2017 have made it into the squad. Zaman who has been out of action due to injury and illness since June 2024, had an impressive campaign in the Champions T20 Cup to earn his spot with Abdullah Shafique getting axed.
Meanwhile, Saim Ayub will be missing the tournament due to injury. Saud Shakeel who played his last ODI in the 2023 World Cup has been rewarded for his consistent performances in home tests.
On the other hand, Muhammad Irfan and Sufyan Moqim have made way for the duo from pakistan’s last ODI assignment in South Africa.
ICC Champions Trophy 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ winners announce squad for the 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣ event 🏆✨
How will you show your support for the Pakistan team❓#ChampionsTrophy | #WeHaveWeWill pic.twitter.com/zDYPFuqzBU
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 31, 2025
“The inclusion of emerging players like mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed and middle-order batters Kamran Ghulam and Tayyab Tahir reflects our confidence in their ability to translate domestic success into international impact,” said Shafiq.
“These players have shown the temperament and skill to thrive in challenging environments and have a deep understanding of home conditions.
“Abrar Ahmed will lead the spin attack, supported by Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha, who offer reliable slow-bowling options, while Faheem Ashraf’s experience and presence gives us a fast-bowling all-rounder’s option.”
“Fakhar Zaman’s return is a significant boost for our top-order. His aggressive approach and match-winning capabilities are vital to our plans.”
Meanwhile the same squad will be playing in Pakistan’s Tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa.
Coming to the tournament, Pakistan is place in Group A along with India, Bangladesh and New Zealand. As per Pakistan’s Champions Trophy schedule, their first match up will be against New Zealand on February 19 at National Stadium Karachi.
Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Also Read: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Jersey – All Teams New Look
