Deadline for naming provisional squads for the tournament ICC Champions Cup 2025 It's January 12, and teams are racing against time to finalize their lineups. The tournament, which begins on February 19, will be held in a hybrid format, with Pakistan being the primary host, while India's matches will be held in the United Arab Emirates due to political tensions between the two countries. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This unique arrangement has added more excitement to what promises to be a competitive tournament.
Pakistan's preparations for the Champions Cup
The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is of utmost importance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the defending champions, having won the title in 2017 in England, beating India in the final. With the new white ball captain, Muhammad RadwanPakistan, who leads the team, has shown impressive form, recently whitewashing both Australia and South Africa In the ODI series. However, injury concerns to some key players could impact their home campaign. Pakistan will look to capitalize on their flat batting at home, but their success depends on fielding a fit and balanced side.
Here is Pakistan's expected lineup for Champions Trophy 2025
1. Saem Ayoub (the best mixture)
One of the prominent players in Pakistan in recent months, Saim Ayoubfaces an uncertain path to the Champions Cup. The young left-hander, who took the cricketing world by storm with his exceptional form in ODIs, fractured his ankle during the second Test against South Africa. This injury kept him out of action for at least six weeks, casting doubt on his participation.
ODI performances for Ayub
- Matches played:9
- Centuries:3
- The fifties: 1
- Recent contributions: Sime was instrumental in Pakistan's win over South Africa, scoring 235 runs in his last three ODIs.
If Saime remains unfit, Pakistan could lose a key player who has proven his mettle on flat batting tracks. Even if he regains his fitness immediately before the tournament, the lack of match training could limit his effectiveness. In his absence, In front of the truth or Pottery of the past He is expected to step in as an opener alongside Abdullah Shafiq.
2. Abdullah Shafiq (first-class all-rounder)
Shafiq is known for his batting style and ability to anchor the innings. With his strong performances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable option at the top of the order. Its ability to adapt to different conditions will be vital on flat, turn-friendly tracks. Shafiq's role will be crucial in providing Pakistan with a consistent start in the Champions Trophy.
3. Mohamed Radwan (Captain and wicket-keeper)
Muhammad Rizwan's consistency and leadership make him a key figure in Pakistan. As the new white-ball captain, Rizwan excelled in guiding the team and maintaining his level with the bat. His wicket-keeping skills add an edge, making him a complete package. Rizwan's ability to stabilize roles under pressure will be invaluable in high-stakes matches.
4. Babar Azam (first-order all-rounder)
Babar Azam, one of the best batsmen in the world, will carry the weight of Pakistan's batting hopes. His great play and consistency in batting makes him the backbone of the batting line-up. Babar is thriving in ODI cricket, and his performances in ICC events have always been noteworthy. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial in dealing with difficult situations.
5. Irrfan Khan (First-class batter)
Irrfan Khan, a promising talent, adds depth to Pakistan's top order. With a strong domestic record, he has shown his ability to play long innings and handle pressure. His elegant batting style and knack for building partnerships make him a valuable asset. Irfan's inclusion provides Pakistan flexibility in shaping their batting strategy.
Read also: Pakistani Fakhar Zaman predicts he will qualify for the 2025 Champions Cup semi-finals
6. Tayeb Taher (middle class mix)
Tayeb Taher is an aggressive mid-range player who is known for finishing matches. Known for his ability to counter-attack, he can shift momentum in Pakistan's favor through the middle. His ability to adapt to different situations and his striking prowess are his main strengths. Taher's role will be vital in accelerating the operating rate when needed.
7. Usman Khan (middle class mix)
Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan's middle order with his attacking style. His ability to remove boundaries and handle high-pressure situations is a huge plus. Usman's recent performances in limited overs cricket have strengthened his position in the team. He is expected to play the role of a game changer in crucial moments.
8. Salman Agha (all-rounder)
Salman Agha offers a balanced mix of solid batting and indirect bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in team composition. Salman's ability to bowl innings in the lower-middle order and bowl economically makes him a major asset. His performance in the Champions Cup could provide the team with vital breakthroughs.
9. Kamran Ghulam (middle class mix)
Kamran Ghulam is a reliable batsman who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate the strike and accelerate when needed adds depth to the lineup. Kamran's consistent performances at home make him a player to watch. He can play a pivotal role in building partnerships and finishing games.
10. Mohamed Hassanein (fast player)
Mohamed Hassanein's superior speed and rebounding ability make him a threat on any surface. His knack for taking early wickets will be crucial to Pakistan's bowling attack. Hassanein's recent improvements in control and variations add to his effectiveness. He will play a key role in troubling the opposition batsmen with his fiery spells.
11. Sufyan Muqeem (left arm)
Sufyan Muqeem is a young and talented left-arm pacer who has impressed with his accuracy. His ability to contain runs and take wickets in the middle overs will be vital on spin-friendly tracks. Muqeem's versatility and control make him a valuable addition to the team. His performance in the Champions Trophy could make him a rising star.
12. Haris Raouf (fast player)
Haris Rauf is Pakistan's favorite bowler in terms of pace and aggression. His ability to run at high speeds and deliver accurate Yorkshire terriers make him deadly at the death. Rauf's knack for picking up crucial wickets under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. His role in leading the pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi will be pivotal.
13. Osama Mir (leg spinner)
Osama Mir is an attacking spinner who brings the wicket-taking option to the middle overs. His ability to fool hitters with flyaways and sharp spin makes him a premier player. Osama's recent performances have shown his ability to win matches in white-ball cricket. He will play a crucial role in breaking partnerships during the Champions Trophy.
14. Naseem Shah (fast bowler)
Naseem Shah's deadly pace and swing make him a great bowler with the new ball. His ability to throw consistent lines and lengths adds control to the Pakistani attack. Naseem has emerged as a reliable player in ICC events and pressure situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial in dismantling the opposition leaders.
15. Shaheen Afridi (fast bowler)
Shaheen Afridi, the Pakistani spearhead, is known for his ability to bat early with the new ball. His lethal off-spinners and accurate yorkers make him a match-winner in ODIs. Shaheen's performances in ICC tournaments have always been top notch. As a senior, he will be instrumental in leading the rushing attack.
