The Pakistan Cricket Board has officially announced its 15-player squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to be hosted in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. With the squad finalization deadline set for February 11, the PCB still has a window for changes before any modifications will require ICC approval on medical grounds.
The same squad will also participate in a tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand and South Africa, which will serve as a crucial preparatory phase before the global tournament.
Pakistan’s squad features four major changes from their last ODI series against South Africa. Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Irfan Khan, and Sufiyan Muqeem have been left out, making way for Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Faheem Ashraf, and Khushdil Shah.
Pakistan’s 15-Player Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Batters
Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir
All-rounders
Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (Vice-Captain)
Wicketkeeper
Mohammad Rizwan (Captain), Usman Khan
Spinner
Abrar Ahmed
Fast Bowlers
Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Pakistan’s squad includes three members from their victorious 2017 ICC Champions Trophy squad Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Faheem Ashraf. These players bring invaluable experience, having previously thrived in high-pressure ICC tournaments.
Fakhar Zaman’s return is a significant boost for Pakistan. The aggressive opener, who famously smashed a century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, has regained full fitness after struggling with injury and illness. His performance in the Champions T20 Cup 2024 where he was the third-highest run-scorer with 303 runs at a strike rate of 132+ earned him a well-deserved recall.
Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah also make their way back into the side. Faheem has been one of the most consistent domestic performers in recent years, while Khushdil has been impressive in both List A and T20 formats, making him a valuable all-round option.
