The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is an important event for Pakistan as they will be co-hosting it with the UAE. However, former cricketer Ahmad Shahzad has raised serious questions about Pakistan’s squad selection. He is worried about the lack of spinners and uncertainty in the opening pair.
- Only one specialist spinner in the squad.
- Unclear opening pair could create problems.
- Some players selected based on T20 performance.
- Saud Shakeel’s role is not clear.
Concerns Over Spin Department
Ahmad Shahzad is not happy with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for selecting only one specialist spinner. He shared his thoughts on social media, saying that Pakistan and UAE pitches usually help spinners. He believes this decision might cause problems for the team.
The only specialist spinner in the squad is Abrar Ahmed. The team will depend on part-time spinners like Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah. Shahzad thinks this is risky and could hurt Pakistan’s chances in the tournament.
Key Points:
- Pakistan selected only one full-time spinner.
- UAE and Pakistan pitches are good for spinners.
- Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah are only part-time options.
Uncertainty in the Opening Pair
Another concern is about Pakistan’s opening batsmen. Shahzad pointed out that Fakhar Zaman is making a comeback, but it is still unclear who will open with him.
Pakistan is trying two new openers in such a big tournament. Shahzad feels that a stable opening pair is important for success. Playing unsettled openers in a high-pressure event might be a big mistake.
Key Points:
- Fakhar Zaman is returning to the squad.
- The second opener is still not confirmed.
- Unclear strategy can affect Pakistan’s performance.
Selection of Players Without ODI Experience
Shahzad also questioned the selection of Usman Khan, Faheem Ashraf, and Usman Shinwari. He noted that these players performed well in Bangladesh’s T20 league, but they haven’t played ODI matches for Pakistan recently.
Choosing players based on T20 performance for a 50-over tournament can be risky. Pakistan needs players with strong ODI experience to compete at the highest level.
Key Points:
- Usman Khan, Faheem Ashraf, and Usman Shinwari selected based on T20 performance.
- These players do not have recent ODI experience.
- Champions Trophy is a 50-over tournament, not T20.
The Role of Saud Shakeel
Another issue raised by Shahzad is about Saud Shakeel. He questioned how Saud will fit into the playing XI. Selecting a player without a clear role can weaken the team’s strategy.
Shahzad believes Pakistan should have a well-defined plan for each player. This will help the team perform better in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Key Points:
- Saud Shakeel’s role in the team is unclear.
- Players should have a defined place in the squad.
- Better planning can improve Pakistan’s performance.
Final Thoughts
Ahmad Shahzad’s concerns highlight some major issues in Pakistan’s squad. The lack of specialist spinners, an uncertain opening pair, and questionable player selections could impact Pakistan’s performance in the tournament.
The Champions Trophy 2025 is a big chance for Pakistan to show their strength in white-ball cricket. A well-balanced squad with clear roles can help them succeed.
Pakistan needs to fix these issues before the Champions Trophy 2025 begins. Fans hope that the team will be ready to compete and make the country proud!
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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
