Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy 2025 starting from February 19. As the host nation, they have an advantage with familiar playing conditions. However, despite being strong contenders, there are key concerns that might affect their performance. This article will highlight three major challenges Pakistan faces in the tournament.
- Pakistan is hosting the Champions Trophy 2025.
- They are among the favourites but have major concerns.
- Issues include an unsettled opening pair, lack of all-rounders, and weak spin back-up.
1. No Fixed Opening Pair
Pakistan suffered a setback as Saim Ayub was ruled out due to an ankle injury. His usual opening partner, Abdullah Shafique, was also dropped due to poor form. This has left Pakistan with no established opening duo.
Fakhar Zaman, a seasoned player, is expected to open. However, his partner remains undecided. Pakistan will need to find a reliable combination quickly to avoid a shaky start in the tournament.
Possible Opening Pair Options
- Fakhar Zaman & Babar Azam – A mix of experience and stability.
- Fakhar Zaman & Imam-ul-Haq – A left-hand-right-hand combination.
- Babar Azam & Mohammad Rizwan – A dependable but unconventional choice.
A strong opening stand is crucial in high-pressure tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
2. Lack of Quality All-Rounders
Unlike other teams, Pakistan’s squad selection focused more on specialist batsmen and bowlers rather than multi-skilled players. This could create a balance issue in the team.
Notable All-Rounder Exclusions
- Aamer Jamal – A powerful hitter and a decent bowler.
- Shadab Khan – A seasoned all-rounder with spin and batting abilities.
Pakistan has included players like Faheem Ashraf, Usman Khan, and Khushdil Shah, but their ability to perform consistently at the international level remains untested. The absence of a genuine all-rounder could weaken both the batting depth and bowling variation.
3. No Back-Up Spinner for Abrar Ahmed
Spin bowling plays a crucial role in subcontinent conditions. Surprisingly, Pakistan left out Sufiyan Muqeem, who performed well recently. Now, the team has only Abrar Ahmed as the main specialist spinner.
Why This Is a Concern?
- If Abrar Ahmed struggles or gets injured, there is no strong replacement.
- Over-reliance on pace bowlers may not be effective in Pakistan’s slow pitches.
- The absence of Shadab Khan and Sufiyan Muqeem reduces spin options.
Pakistan’s bowling attack is strong, but a lack of spin variety could be exploited by opponents.
Pakistan enters the Champions Trophy 2025 as one of the favourites. However, concerns over the opening pair, lack of all-rounders, and limited spin options could impact their chances of winning.
What Pakistan Needs to Do?
- Find a stable opening duo before the tournament.
- Utilize available all-rounders effectively.
- Strengthen the spin attack with tactical strategies.
With the right approach, Pakistan can overcome these challenges and aim for glory in the Champions Trophy 2025.
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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
