Upcoming Tri-Series and Champions Trophy
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is in the final stages of selecting its squad for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, set to commence on February 19. Ahead of the tournament, the national team will participate in a tri-nation series with South Africa and New Zealand starting February 8.
Key Selection Considerations
- Saim Ayub’s Fitness:
Saim Ayub, recovering from an ankle fracture, is a pivotal inclusion under consideration. If declared fit, he will feature in both the tri-series and Champions Trophy. A backup player has been shortlisted if he remains unavailable. - Batting Changes:
Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan are expected to miss out due to poor form. Fakhar Zaman has secured his place, while decisions on Imam-ul-Haq and newcomer Haseebullah are pending. - Core Batting Line-up:
Established players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan will form the batting backbone. - Bowling Attack:
Pakistan’s pace arsenal includes Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, supported by Mohammad Hasnain. Spin duties will be handled by Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem, with Kamran Ghulam providing additional options.
Champions Trophy Group Stage
Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh
Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia
Pakistan’s opening match will be against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, while the much-anticipated showdown with India takes place in Dubai on February 23.
Tournament Schedule
- February 19: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Karachi
- February 23: Pakistan vs India, Dubai
- March 9: Final, Lahore (if India qualifies, the final will move to Dubai)
All matches will be played as day-night fixtures. The PCB has until February 11 to submit its final squad.
