Pakistan has unveiled its 15-member squad for the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, with wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan set to lead the team. However, the squad announcement comes with a major setback as young batting sensation Saim Ayub has been ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained during the New Year's Test in Cape Town.
Another notable omission is top-order batter Abdullah Shafique, making way for former captain Babar Azam to solidify his role at the top. In a significant move, Pakistan has recalled veteran opener Fakhar Zaman, known for his match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India. All-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah, along with middle-order batter Saud Shakeel, have also been included.
Before heading into the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will participate in a tri-series featuring South Africa and New Zealand, providing crucial match practice ahead of the tournament.
Pakistan is placed in a competitive group alongside arch-rivals India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. The Men in Green will look to replicate their 2017 success as they aim for another Champions Trophy title.
Pakistan Squad for ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025:
Mohammad Rizwan (captain)
Babar Azam
Fakhar Zaman
Kamran Ghulam
Saud Shakeel
Tayyab Tahir
Faheem Ashraf
Khushdil Shah
Salman Ali Agha
Usman Khan
Abrar Ahmed
Haris Rauf
Mohammad Hasnain
Naseem Shah
Shaheen Shah Afridi
Pakistan's Group Stage Fixtures:
19 February: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Karachi
23 February: Pakistan vs India, Dubai
27 February: Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
The team aims to defend their title, having won the previous Champions Trophy in 2017.
