The squad for Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 has been decided, featuring key players such as Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. However, the defending champions’ biggest boost is the inclusion of star opener Fakhar Zaman, who is expected to open the innings for Pakistan. As per a report from a Pakistani media outlet, Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad has been finalized, though the official announcement is still pending.
Shan Masood to replace injured Saim Ayub
According to Geo News, selectors are considering including Shan Masood in the team as the opener, but his selection hinges on his performance in the second Test against the West Indies. Reports indicate that both Masood and Imam-ul-Haq are in contention for the opening slot.
According to Cricket Pakistan, the selectors have finalized the tentative squad for the Champions Trophy. Fakhar Zaman returns to the team, while Imam-ul-Haq is named as the second opener. The core of the team remains intact, featuring Babar Azam, captain Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi. Most of the players who participated in the ODIs against South Africa will be included in the Champions Trophy squad.
No place for Abdullah Shafique?
Pakistan have also brought in Imam-ul-Haq back in the side and with Fakhar also there, the board has decided to exclude Abdullah Shafique from the side. The opener had a horrendous white-ball season in 2024, and as a result, the PCB decided not to include him in the side.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad (Probable)
Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Sufyan Maqeem, Irfan Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Hasnain, Haseebullah, and Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood.
