As Pakistan announced its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Asad Shafiq, a member of the National Selection Committee, shared valuable insights into the team’s selection process.
Shafiq, who has played 147 international matches, including 77 Tests for Pakistan, highlighted the committee’s approach of choosing players who have consistently excelled in domestic cricket, particularly in home conditions, to ensure the squad is well-prepared for the global tournament.
“Our focus has been on selecting players who have consistently performed in conditions similar to those they will encounter in the Champions Trophy. This approach ensures a balanced and well-prepared squad,” Shafiq explained.
He also emphasized the squad’s versatility, featuring a mix of youth and experience. “The team has been selected with flexibility in mind, allowing the captain a range of options for different situations,” he added.
After Pakistan dropped regular opener Abdullah Shafique following a poor run in South Africa, where he was dismissed for three ducks, and with Saim Ayub sidelined due to injury, Shafiq addressed the question of who would open alongside Fakhar Zaman.
Fakhar Zaman’s return to the squad was a key highlight, and Shafiq confirmed that he would open with either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel. “Fakhar’s aggressive style is crucial for our top-order. His partner will depend on conditions and strategy, but both Babar and Saud are capable of handling the role,” he said.
Shafiq also discussed the inclusion of rising players such as mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed and middle-order batsmen Kamran Ghulam and Tayyab Tahir. “These players have proven their abilities in home conditions, and we’re confident they can replicate their domestic success at the international level,” he said.
Regarding the bowling attack, Shafiq praised the spin department led by Abrar Ahmed, with support from Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha. “Our bowling lineup is well-rounded, and with Faheem Ashraf’s all-round skills, we can adapt to various match situations,” he explained.
Shafiq also confirmed that Saim Ayub, who had been in excellent form, would miss the tournament due to an ankle injury. “Saim’s exclusion is unfortunate, especially given his form, but his long-term health is our priority,” Shafiq stated.
Finally, Shafiq emphasized the importance of the upcoming tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa as key preparation for the Champions Trophy. “This series will help us fine-tune our strategies and ensure the team is ready to defend the Champions Trophy on home soil,” he concluded.
Pakistan Squad: Muhammad Rizwan (Captain), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (Vice-Captain), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
