Pakistan name ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad

Pakistan has announced its squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with Mohammad Rizwan leading the team in the home tournament. The squad features a blend of experienced players and new talent, with Khushdil Shah, Usman Khan, and Fahim Ashraf earning national call-ups after impressing in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

The selection of these players comes as no surprise, as Pakistan has put its faith in seasoned campaigners for the prestigious event. Prior to the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will play a Tri-Nation Series at home against New Zealand and South Africa.

Khushdil Shah, Usman Khan, and Fahim Ashraf have been added to the Champions Trophy squad following strong performances in the BPL. Khushdil and Usman played for Rangpur Riders and Chittagong Kings, respectively, while Fahim Ashraf is still in Bangladesh.

Pakistan’s pace attack for the Champions Trophy will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain. The all-rounders included are Khushdil Shah, Fahim Ashraf, and Saud Shakil, with Abrar Ahmed as the sole spinner. Usman Khan, who will serve as a backup wicketkeeper, joins captain Mohammad Rizwan in the squad.

The 2025 Champions Trophy will feature eight teams, with Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and New Zealand forming Group A. The tournament will begin on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opening match in Karachi. A highly anticipated Pakistan vs. India match will take place in Dubai on February 23, followed by Pakistan’s clash with Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.

Pakistan’s 15-player squad:

Batters: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir

All-rounders: Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain)

Wicketkeeper-batters: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Usman Khan

Spinner: Abrar Ahmed

Fast bowlers: Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi