Pakistan’s Strongest XI For ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Match Against India

Pakistan faces a crucial challenge in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as they prepare to take on arch-rivals India. After a tough loss to New Zealand by 60 runs, Pakistan must regroup and find their best playing XI. With Fakhar Zaman injured and Haris Rauf underperforming, changes in the squad are likely.

Fakhar Zaman may miss the match against India due to a knee injury.
Imam-ul-Haq is expected to replace Fakhar as the opener.
Saud Shakeel’s poor form might lead to his exclusion.
Haris Rauf had an expensive spell but could still play due to limited alternatives.
Pakistan is likely to keep most of the team unchanged.

Pakistan’s New Opening Combination

Fakhar Zaman sustained a knee injury in the first match, struggling with running and shot execution. Reports suggest he might be ruled out of the tournament. If confirmed, Imam-ul-Haq is set to replace him. Imam has a solid ODI record with 3,138 runs in 71 matches, averaging 48.28 with a strike rate of 82.56.

Middle Order Adjustments: Will Saud Shakeel Be Dropped?

Saud Shakeel’s poor form has raised concerns. Since his return to ODIs, he has scored only 29 runs in 3 innings at a poor average of 9.67. His strike rate of 59.18 indicates he has neither accelerated nor anchored innings effectively.

Pakistan could replace him with Kamran Ghulam or Usman Khan, with Ghulam being the preferred choice. His inclusion could add stability and intent in the top order, which Pakistan lacked against New Zealand.

Haris Rauf: Should Pakistan Persist with Him?

Haris Rauf had a disastrous performance in the opening match, conceding 83 runs in 10 overs. His recent ODI stats have also been underwhelming:

Despite his struggles, Pakistan lacks a strong backup. Mohammad Hasnain, the reserve seamer, has been more inconsistent, with only 5 wickets in 6 ODIs at an average of 51.60 since 2024. Given the limited options, Pakistan might give Rauf another opportunity.

Batting and Bowling Core Remains Unchanged

Pakistan’s middle-order remains stable with Mohammad Rizwan, Agha Salman, and Tayyab Tahir occupying key slots. Khushdil Shah, who impressed with a half-century in the last match, is set to continue at number seven.

In the bowling department, Shaheen Afridi, despite an off day against New Zealand, is a proven match-winner. He has picked up 7 wickets in just 4 ODIs against India. Naseem Shah, who showed rhythm in the last game, will partner Shaheen and Rauf in the pace attack. Abrar Ahmed will handle spin responsibilities.

Pakistan’s Strongest XI vs India:

Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK), Agha Salman, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

Pakistan’s match against India is a do-or-die situation. The absence of Fakhar Zaman and Haris Rauf’s poor form are major concerns, but a well-balanced squad can still compete. Imam-ul-Haq’s return and Kamran Ghulam’s inclusion could provide stability. Pakistan must execute their plans efficiently to stay alive in the tournament.

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