Why Did Pakistan Drop Faheem Ashraf In ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

Pakistan’s Big Decision in Champions Trophy 2025 Opener

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has officially begun. Pakistan and New Zealand are facing off in the opening match. Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, won the toss and decided to bowl first.

Haris Rauf returned to Pakistan’s playing XI.
Faheem Ashraf was dropped from the squad.
Pakistan is aiming to defend their 2017 Champions Trophy title.

Haris Rauf’s Comeback Pushed Faheem Ashraf Out

Pakistan made a bold change to their playing XI. Haris Rauf, a key fast bowler, returned to the squad. His comeback was expected, as he adds strength to the bowling attack.

This change meant that Faheem Ashraf had to sit out. The all-rounder was part of the squad but did not perform well in recent matches. He failed to leave a significant impact in the tri-series final against New Zealand.

Why Was Faheem Ashraf Dropped?

Faheem Ashraf played at No. 8 in the last match. He scored 22 runs off 21 balls with two boundaries. However, he could not hit a six. His bowling performance was also underwhelming, as he bowled only 2.2 overs and conceded 16 runs without taking a wicket.

Pakistan’s management needed a stronger bowling attack for the Champions Trophy 2025. With Haris Rauf back in the squad, Faheem’s spot became uncertain.

Pakistan’s Playing XI for the Match Against New Zealand

Pakistan’s final squad for the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 includes:

Batters:

Fakhar Zaman
Babar Azam
Saud Shakeel
Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk)
Salman Agha
Tayyab Tahir
Khushdil Shah

Bowlers:

Shaheen Afridi
Naseem Shah
Haris Rauf
Abrar Ahmed

Is Rizwan Unhappy With Faheem Ashraf?

Some reports suggest that Mohammad Rizwan was not fully confident about Faheem’s role in the squad. A former player claimed that Rizwan wanted to strengthen the bowling unit, leading to Faheem’s exclusion.

However, there is no official statement from Rizwan on this. The decision seems purely tactical, considering match conditions and team balance.

Pakistan’s Strategy in Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan won the Champions Trophy in 2017 under Sarfaraz Ahmed. Now, in 2025, they aim to defend their title. With a strong bowling lineup, they are focusing on restricting opponents and chasing targets effectively.

The decision to bring in Haris Rauf could help Pakistan take early wickets against New Zealand. If the strategy works, it will set the tone for the tournament.

What’s Next for Faheem Ashraf?

Although Faheem Ashraf was dropped from this match, he is still part of the 15-member squad. He may get a chance later in the tournament, depending on Pakistan’s team combination and pitch conditions.

Pakistan made a strategic decision by replacing Faheem Ashraf with Haris Rauf. Faheem’s recent performances were not strong enough to secure his place. Meanwhile, Rauf’s return adds extra firepower to the bowling attack.

As Pakistan moves forward in the Champions Trophy 2025, their team selection will continue to be crucial. Fans are eager to see how these decisions impact the tournament.

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ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams

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