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As the host nation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan is under scrutiny for delaying the announcement of its squad. With the provisional squad deadline already passed, Pakistan remains the only team among the eight participating nations yet to finalize its team. Former cricketers and fans alike are raising questions about the delay, which seems to stem from a mix of uncertainty and fitness concerns for key players.
- Pakistan has not yet announced its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
- Saim Ayub’s fitness and uncertainties in the middle order are key concerns.
- Pakistan’s pace attack will play a pivotal role in their strategy.
Uncertainty Over Squad Announcement
The International Cricket Council (ICC) required teams to submit provisional squads by January 12, 2025. While other teams took some extra time to finalize their selections, Pakistan is still undecided. This delay is unusual given their role as the tournament’s host nation. Former cricketer Basit Ali speculates the delay is less about fear and more about uncertainty in decision-making.
Basit Ali pointed out, “The delay likely relates to updates on Saim Ayub’s fitness. Without clarity, the team is hesitating to finalize the lineup.”
Challenges with Batting Order
Pakistan’s batting lineup is under scrutiny, particularly positions 5, 6, and 7. These slots are crucial in handling aggressive fast bowlers who typically deliver speeds over 140kmph. While openers like Fakhar Zaman are confirmed, others such as Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan are unlikely to be included due to poor form.
- If Saim Ayub is unavailable, selectors may consider Shan Masood as an alternative opener.
- The middle order might rely heavily on experienced players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Agha.
- Emerging talents, including Tayyab Tahir and Haseebullah, could add fresh energy.
Basit Ali also emphasized the need to include a dependable player like Saud Shakeel to strengthen the middle order, despite calls for T20 players such as Khushdil Shah.
Bowling: Pakistan’s Strength
The pace attack is set to be Pakistan’s most formidable weapon. Key bowlers such as Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain are likely to lead the charge. These players bring a mix of speed, swing, and experience.
To balance the bowling lineup, Pakistan is expected to include spinners like Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem, alongside all-rounder Shadab Khan. Their role will be critical in subduing opponents in spin-friendly conditions.
Possible Squad Composition
Here’s a potential squad for Pakistan:
Batsmen:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Tayyab Tahir
All-Rounders:
- Shadab Khan
- Salman Agha
Bowlers:
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
Emerging Talent:
- Haseebullah
- Sufiyan Muqeem
What’s Next?
Pakistan’s delay in squad announcement highlights deeper concerns. The team must resolve uncertainties around Saim Ayub’s fitness and ensure that the middle order is capable of handling high-pressure matches. While the pace attack remains a reliable asset, the batting lineup needs careful balancing to succeed against tough competitors.
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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
