Pakistan's expected squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 unveiled

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is in the final stages of selecting Pakistan's squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19.

The management is awaiting Saim Ayub’s medical report, as he is recovering from an ankle injury. His participation in the tournament hinges on whether he is cleared to play.

The same squad will also compete in the tri-series ahead of the Champions Trophy, and if Ayub is unavailable, selectors have a backup plan.

Currently, openers Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan have been excluded from the squad. Fakhar Zaman has secured one of the spots, while the team management is debating between Imam-ul-Haq and emerging player Haseebullah for the remaining position.

Key players in the squad are expected to include Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan.

In the bowling department, Pakistan will rely on its pace attack, featuring Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain. Kamran Ghulam, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, and young Sufiyan Muqeem will provide additional support.

The squad is likely to be announced in the coming days. The tri-series will begin on February 8, leaving a limited window for finalizing the team.

The Champions Trophy will be held from February 19 to March 9, at venues in Pakistan and Dubai.