Champions Trophy 2025: Fakhar Zaman, Faheem Ashraf, and Khushdil Shah return to Pakistan’s squad, which will also participate in the upcoming tri-nation series. On Friday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the eagerly awaited squad for the Men’s ICC Champions Trophy and the tri-series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
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According to an official statement from the PCB, four changes have been made to the 15-player squad that last featured in an ODI series against South Africa late last year. Muhammad Irfan Khan, Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim have been replaced by Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf and Saud Shakeel.
Fakhar Zaman’s return adds significant strength to the top order, especially given his past performances in ICC tournaments, including his match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Faheem Ashraf brings all-around ability, while Khushdil Shah provides a left-handed power-hitting option in the middle order. Saud Shakeel’s inclusion further bolsters Pakistan’s batting depth.
With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the squad looks well-balanced as Pakistan aims for success in both the Champions Trophy and the tri-nation series leading up to the tournament. Pakistan’s squad for the Men’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the tri-nation series will be led by captain Mohammad Rizwan, with Salman Ali Agha serving as vice-captain.
Fakhar Zaman Makes Comeback After Injury and Illness
The squad includes three players from Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy-winning team—Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman. Babar and Fakhar, along with Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Saud Shakeel, were also part of the squad for the ICC Men’s 50-over Cricket World Cup 2023.
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Since the 2023 World Cup, Pakistan has played three ODI series, securing victories against reigning 50-over world champions Australia (2-1), Zimbabwe (2-1), and South Africa (3-0). Fakhar Zaman, who famously scored a century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India. Returns to the squad after recovering from an injury and illness that kept him out of international cricket since June 2024.
Fakhar proved his return to full fitness and form in the Champions T20 Cup 2024 in December. Finishing as the tournament’s third-highest run-scorer with 303 runs at a strike rate of over 132. In 82 ODIs, he has amassed 3,492 runs, including 11 centuries and 16 half-centuries, at an impressive average of 46.5 and a strike rate of 93.4.
Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah Return to Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board has rewarded Test vice-captain Saud Shakeel for his outstanding performances. In home Tests with a place in the ODI squad for the Men’s ICC Champions Trophy. The left-hander last played an ODI against England in Kolkata during the 2023 ICC Men’s 50-over World Cup. But has been in exceptional form in Tests, scoring 577 runs in 13 innings at home this season.
His tally includes two centuries and two half-centuries against Bangladesh, England, and the West Indies, showcasing his consistency and ability to anchor innings. All-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah make their return to the ODI squad, adding depth and versatility to the team. Faheem, who last played an ODI in September 2023, has been one of the most consistent domestic performers across formats, making a strong case for his selection.
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Khushdil, who last featured in an ODI for Pakistan in August 2022, has earned his recall after impressive performances in domestic cricket. He scored 176 runs in the Champions One-Day Cup and contributed 132 runs while taking nine wickets in the Champions T20 Cup. Their inclusion provides captain Mohammad Rizwan with additional options in both the batting and bowling departments, strengthening Pakistan’s overall squad.
Tri-Nation Series Kicks Off on February 8 in Lahore
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has until February 11 to make any changes to the squad. After which replacements will only be allowed on medical grounds with approval from the ICC Event Technical Committee. This guarantees that the final squad will be set well in advance of the highly anticipated Champions Trophy.
Before the tournament, the same squad will participate in a tri-nation ODI series featuring New Zealand and South Africa. The series, scheduled to take place in Lahore and Karachi, will help Pakistan prepare for the upcoming tournament. Allowing the players to fine-tune their form and combinations ahead of the major ICC event.
The highly anticipated tri-nation series will kick off on February 8. With Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opening match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. This series, also featuring South Africa, will serve as crucial preparation for the Men’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Allowing teams to fine-tune their strategies and assess player form ahead of the global event.
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Following the tri-series, the Champions Trophy will officially begin on February 19 and continue until March 9. Bringing together eight top cricketing nations in a battle for the coveted title. The tournament will feature matches across three premier venues in Pakistan Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi while Dubai will also host select fixtures.
Pakistan’s Balanced Squad Eyes ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Glory
With a total of 15 high-intensity matches scheduled, the tournament is set to be one of the most exciting 50-over competitions in recent years. Pakistan, hosting a major ICC event after a long gap, is eager to showcase its ability to successfully organize a global tournament. Cricket fans across the world are expected to witness thrilling encounters as teams compete in the prestigious event.
For Pakistan, the home advantage, coupled with a well-balanced squad, presents a significant opportunity to contend for the Champions Trophy title. The team, featuring experienced players and emerging talents, will look to leverage familiar conditions to challenge the best in the world. As excitement builds, all eyes will be on Pakistan as they aim to make a strong impact and claim the Champions Trophy on home soil.
Pakistan squad:
Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c), Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Khushdil Shah, Naseem Shah, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
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