Pakistan fans, get ready! The ICC Champions Trophy is making a thrilling return in 2025, and the buzz surrounding team selection is already intensifying. With an unpredictable form, emerging stars, and injury dramas, Pakistan’s potential squad has become a topic of debate. Let’s dive into a detailed look at who could make the final 15 for the green shirts!
Pakistan Cricket – Current Scenario
Pakistan’s cricket landscape has been a rollercoaster since the 2023 World Cup. The squad has seen management shake-ups, patchy performances and a fresh wave of talent emerging from PSL and domestic circuits. While senior names like Babar and Rizwan remain key, the spotlight is shifting toward new guns aiming to shine on the international stage.
Criteria for Squad Selection
Selectors have a tough job. It’s not just about stats anymore. Here’s what matters:
- Form: Recent performances in T20Is, ODIs and domestic leagues
- Fitness: Recovery from injuries is critical (hello, Naseem Shah)
- Versatility: Can they adapt to pressure and different formats?
- Experience: Playing in ICC tournaments is a major plus
Predicted Batting Line-Up
Top-Order Batsmen
- Babar Azam is still Pakistan’s batting backbone. Technique, temperament and class.
- Fakhar Zaman – On-and-off form, but still a match-winner on his day.
- Saim Ayub – Aggressive left-hander, PSL form has made him hard to ignore.
Middle-Order Batsmen
- Mohammad Rizwan – Reliable, consistent and significant under pressure.
- Saud Shakeel – A composed anchor with a smart game sense.
- Abdullah Shafique – Stylish, promising, and more mature than ever.
All-Rounders in Focus
Established Names
- Shadab Khan – Despite inconsistent form, his all-round skills and fielding are key.
- Mohammad Nawaz – Adds balance to the team with left-arm spin and proper batting.
Emerging Talents
- Aamer Jamal – Raw pace, big heart and gutsy performances.
- Qasim Akram – A solid lower-order bat and effective spinner.
Bowling Unit Predictions
Fast Bowlers
- Shaheen Afridi – Pakistan’s ace spearhead, dangerous in the powerplay.
- Naseem Shah – If fully fit, he’s unmissable.
- Haris Rauf – Adds pace and death-over skills.
- Mohammad Wasim Jr. – Handy with the ball and bat.
Spin Options
- Abrar Ahmed – Mystery spinner with a big future.
- Usama Mir – Tall leggie with control and variations.
Wicketkeeper Choice
Rizwan will be the undisputed first choice.
Backup: Mohammad Haris – explosive hitter and decent glove work.
Captaincy Possibilities
- Babar Azam – Expected to take back ODI captaincy.
- Shaheen Afridi – Strong backup if Babar isn’t leading.
Controversial Omissions
Some big names might not cut:
- Imad Wasim – Retirement and return drama aside, selectors may move forward.
- Sarfaraz Ahmed – Age and form are not on his side.
- Hasan Ali – Inconsistent form, overshadowed by younger pacers.
Backup Players List
Expect these names to hover around:
- Ihsanullah – Express Pace needs fitness clearance.
- Haseebullah Khan – Promising young wicketkeeper.
- Zaman Khan – Yorker specialist.
- Imran Butt – Steady domestic performer.
Strategy Outlook for Pakistan
Pakistan’s ideal strategy will revolve around a pace-heavy attack, dynamic batting, and spin back-ups for middle overs. Strength lies in bowling firepower and a solid top order. Weakness? Middle-order consistency and finishing.
Final 15 Predicted Squad
- Babar Azam (C)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Saim Ayub
- Mohammad Rizwan (WK)
- Abdullah Shafique
- Saud Shakeel
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Naseem Shah
- Mohammad Wasim Jr.
- Abrar Ahmed
- Usama Mir
- Aamer Jamal
Conclusion
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad will blend experience and youth with flair. While challenges remain, the depth of talent and hunger to prove themselves make this side a formidable opponent. The selection day will be dramatic, no doubt—but if the cards fall right, this squad could well bring silverware home.
FAQs
1. Who will lead Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025?
Most likely, Babar Azam unless PCB throws a surprise by naming Shaheen Afridi.
2. Is there a chance for Sarfaraz to return?
It is unlikely, as the focus is shifting toward grooming younger wicketkeepers.
3. Can Pakistan win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
They have the talent, but consistency and pressure handling will decide their fate.
4. Who are the surprise picks?
Aamer Jamal and Qasim Akram could be surprise inclusions if the form holds.
5. What are Pakistan’s most significant challenges?
Middle-order stability and finishing matches under pressure.