The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is under fire as the Sindh government threatens to form a separate cricket board. This controversy arises just weeks before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19. The dispute centers around allegations of player discrimination, particularly against cricketers from Sindh.
Muhammad Bakhsh Mahar, the provisional sports minister of Sindh, voiced his concerns during a youth conference. He criticized the PCB for sidelining talented players from Sindh, emphasizing that cricket is not just for Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Mahar warned that if the situation doesn’t improve, Sindh will establish its own cricket board.
This controversy adds pressure on the PCB, which is already managing team selection challenges ahead of the Champions Trophy. The board recently announced its squad for the tournament and a tri-nation series involving New Zealand and South Africa. The selection decisions have sparked debates, especially with the recall of veteran opener Fakhar Zaman and the exclusion of Abdullah Shafique.
Sindh Government’s Threat to Form a Separate Cricket Board
The Sindh government has accused the PCB of neglecting players from the province. Mahar highlighted that many deserving cricketers from Sindh are being overlooked despite their talent. He argued that cricket has deep roots in Sindh and deserves equal representation at the national level.
Mahar pointed out that Sindh players are often sidelined, even when they perform well in domestic cricket. He cited examples of players who, despite their potential, were not given opportunities to represent Pakistan. This has led to growing frustration among cricket enthusiasts in Sindh.
The provincial government has vowed to take action if the PCB fails to address these concerns. The threat of forming a separate cricket board could lead to a major shake-up in Pakistan’s cricketing structure, especially with the Champions Trophy just around the corner.
Pakistan’s Squad Selection for Champions Trophy 2025
The PCB recently announced its squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 and the tri-nation series. The selection decisions have been met with mixed reactions. Fakhar Zaman has been recalled to the squad after being absent from recent series against Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
However, the exclusion of Abdullah Shafique has raised eyebrows. Shafique failed to score in the three-match ODI series against South Africa, leading to his omission. The team is also grappling with opening partnership issues due to the injury of Saim Ayub, who was injured during the Test series against South Africa.
The selectors have brought back Faheem Ashraf and Khusdil Shah, who last played ODIs in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The spin department will rely on Abrar Ahmed, while the pace attack features Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.
Key Players to Watch in Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy includes a mix of experienced players and young talent. Mohammad Rizwan will lead the team, with Salman Ali Agha serving as vice-captain. The team has been in good form, winning their last three ODI series in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
The pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf will be crucial for Pakistan’s success. Their ability to take early wickets and control the middle overs will be vital in the tournament. The team will also rely on Fakhar Zaman to provide strong starts at the top of the order.
In the spin department, Abrar Ahmed will have a key role to play. His variations and ability to bowl in pressure situations could make a significant difference in Pakistan’s campaign.
Pakistan’s Preparation for Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan will play a tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa as part of their preparation for the Champions Trophy. The series will provide an opportunity for the team to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum ahead of the main event.
The tri-series will begin on February 19 in Karachi, followed by matches in Dubai. Pakistan’s first match in the Champions Trophy will be against New Zealand, followed by high-profile clashes against India and Bangladesh.
The team’s performance in the tri-series will be closely watched, as it will set the tone for their Champions Trophy campaign. The PCB will be hoping that the squad can overcome the ongoing controversies and deliver strong performances on the field.
Challenges Ahead for Pakistan Cricket
The controversy surrounding player discrimination and the threat of a separate cricket board in Sindh pose significant challenges for the PCB. The board must address these issues to ensure unity and focus within the team ahead of the Champions Trophy.
The selection decisions have also sparked debates, with critics questioning the exclusion of certain players. The PCB will need to manage these concerns carefully to maintain the team’s morale and public support.
As Pakistan prepares for the Champions Trophy, the focus will be on delivering strong performances and overcoming the off-field challenges. The tournament provides an opportunity for the team to showcase their talent and bring pride to the nation.
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
