Dubai: Pakistan Squad Champions Trophy: Pakistan’s selectors made a surprising decision on Friday by naming only one specialist spinner in their 15-member squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy, set to begin next month. Abrar Ahmed, a 26-year-old spinner with four ODIs under his belt and 10 wickets, including a best of 4/33, is the sole spinner in the team led by Mohammad Rizwan. The squad features a batting-heavy lineup, with nine batsmen included, reflecting a strategic move for the prestigious tournament. This selection is expected to draw attention as Pakistan aims for success in the Champions Trophy.
“Our focus has been on selecting players who have consistently excelled in domestic competitions under similar conditions, demonstrating their readiness to perform in a global event,” said Shafiq.
The four pacers in the squad are Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
The squad will also play a Tri-series with South Africa and New Zealand in Karachi and Lahore from February 8-14.
The upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 will be co-hosted by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in Pakistan and Dubai, adding excitement as these two cricket-loving nations gear up to showcase the prestigious tournament. With matches scheduled in both venues, teams will face varying conditions, from Dubai’s dry pitches to Pakistan’s home advantage. Fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament, which promises thrilling cricketing action in two iconic cricket locations.
Mohammad Rizwan, leading Pakistan in his first ICC tournament as ODI captain, is a reliable batter and wicketkeeper known for his resilience.
The Champions Trophy marks the return of an International Cricket Council (ICC) event to Pakistan after 29 years. The tournament, originally planned to be held exclusively in Pakistan, was later adjusted to include a few matches in the UAE.
Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Kamran Ghulam, Khushdil Shah, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Muhammad Hasnain and Abrar Ahmed.
