Deadline for nomination of temporary staff ICC Champions Trophy 2025 It’s January 12th and teams are racing against time to finalize their lineups. The tournament, which will begin on February 19, will be held in a hybrid format, with Pakistan as the main host, while India’s games will be played in the UAE due to political tensions. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This unique arrangement has added intrigue to what promises to be a competitive tournament.
Pakistan is preparing for the Champions Trophy
The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy holds great significance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the reigning champions, having won the title in England in 2017 after defeating India in the final. With new white ball captains Mohammad RizvanPakistan, the leading side, has shown impressive form recently, whitewashing both Australia and South Africa in the ODI series. However, injury concerns for some key players could affect their campaign on home soil. Pakistan will look to take advantage of the flat batting tracks at home, but their success depends on building a fit and balanced line-up.
Here is Pakistan’s predicted squad for Champions Trophy 2025
1. Saim Ayub (Most Ordered Pastry)
One of Pakistan’s standout players in recent months, Saim AyubHe faces an uncertain path to the Champions Cup. The young left-hander, who took the cricket world by storm with his phenomenal form in ODIs, suffered a broken ankle during the second Test against South Africa. The injury put him out of action for at least six weeks, putting his participation in doubt.
Ayub’s ODI performances
- Matches Played: 9
- Centuries: 3
- Fifties: 1
- Recent contributions: Saim was instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against South Africa, scoring 235 runs in the last three ODIs.
If Saim remains unfit, Pakistan could lose a key player who has proved his mettle in straight shots. Even if he recovers just before the tournament, his lack of match experience may limit his effectiveness. In his absence, Imam-ul-Haq or Fakhar Zaman it is expected that he will step as soon as he opens Abdullah Shafiq.
2. Abdullah Shafiqa (The highest quality pastry)
Shafique is known for his batting technique and ability to anchor shots. With his solid performances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable option at the top of the order. Its adaptability to different conditions will be vital on flat and twisty tracks. Shafiq’s role will be instrumental in ensuring Pakistan’s steady starts in the Champions Trophy.
3. Mohammad Rizwan (captain and goalkeeper)
Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and leadership make him a key figure for Pakistan. As the new captain of the white ball, Rizwan excels in leading the team and maintaining his form with the bat. Its closed storage capability adds to the advantage, making it a complete package. Rizwan’s ability to stabilize shots under pressure will be invaluable in high-stakes matches.
4. Babar Azam (Top Grade Pastry)
One of the best batsmen in the world, Babar Azam will carry the weight of Pakistan’s batting hopes. His fine batting game and consistency make him the backbone of the batting line-up. Babar is thriving in ODI cricket and his performances in ICC events have always been remarkable. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial to navigating difficult situations.
5. Irrfan Khan (The Most Inclined)
A promising talent, Irfan Khan adds depth to Pakistan’s top order. With a strong domestic record, he has shown the ability to play long shots and handle pressure. His elegant batting style and ability to build partnerships make him a valuable asset. The inclusion of Irfan offers Pakistan flexibility in formulating its batting strategy.
Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts the four semi-finalists of the 2025 Champions Trophy
6. Tayyab Tahir (Medium Order Dough)
Tayyab Tahir is an aggressive middle-order player with a reputation for finishing games. Known for his counter-attacking skills, he can change the pace in Pakistan’s favor during the medium overs. His ability to adapt to different situations and his trickery prowess are key strengths. Tahir’s role will play a vital role in accelerating the run rate when required.
7. Usman Khan (Middle Order Batter)
Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan’s middle order with his attacking style of batting. His ability to clear boundaries and manage high-pressure situations is a significant asset. Usman’s recent performances in limited overs cricket have cemented his position in the team. He is expected to play the role of a game changer in crunch time.
8. Salman Agha (Comprehensive)
Salman Agha offers a balanced combination of solid batting and no-spin bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in the team composition. Salman’s ability to play crucial innings and deliver economical deliveries in the middle-lower order makes him a key asset. His performance in the Champions Cup can bring important improvements to the team.
9. Kamran Ghulam (Middle Order Batter)
Kamran Ghulam is a reliable batsman who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and step up when needed adds depth to the lineup. Kamran’s consistent domestic performances make him a player to watch. He could be instrumental in building partnerships and finishing games.
10. Mohammad Hasnain (Fast Bowler)
Mohammad Hasnai’s raw pace and leaping ability make him a threat on any surface. His ability to score early will play a crucial role in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Hasnai’s recent improvements in control and variations increase its effectiveness. He will play a key role in troubling opposition batsmen with his fiery spells.
11. Sufiyan Mugeem (Left Arm Wrist Spinner)
Sufiyan Mugeem is a young and talented left arm wrist spinner who impresses with his accuracy. His ability to keep runs and take wickets in the middle overs will be vital on spin-friendly tracks. Muqeem’s variation and control make him a valuable addition to the lineup. His performance in the Champions Cup could mark him as a rising star.
12. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)
Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s best batsman for his pace and aggressiveness. His ability to bowl at high speed and deliver accurate yorkers makes him lethal at the death. Rauf’s ability to take important wickets under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. His role will be key in leading the pace attack along with Shaheen Afridi.
13. Osama Mir (leg spinner)
Usama Mir is an attack-minded leg-spinner who brings a wicket-taking option to the middle-order. His ability to deceive batsmen with his flight and sharp turn makes him a key player. Usama’s recent performances have showcased his match-winning potential in white-ball cricket. He will be instrumental in breaking the partnership during the Champions Trophy.
14. Nasim Shah (Fast Bowler)
Naseem Shah’s deadly pace and swing make him a formidable bowler with the new ball. His ability to hit consistent lines and lengths adds to the control of Pakistan’s attack. Naseem has emerged as a reliable bowler in ICC events and pressure situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial to knock down the opposition’s top order.
15. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)
Pakistan spearhead Shaheen Afridi is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball. His deadly inswingers and pinpoint yorkers make him a match winner in ODIs. Shaheen’s performances in ICC tournaments have been consistently high. As a big bowler, his role will be instrumental in leading the pace attack.
