Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has predicted the potential winner of  highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from February 19 to March 9.

Return of the tournament after eight-year hiatus

This edition will mark the return of the Champions Trophy after a long eight-year hiatus, making it one of the most awaited international cricket events. Pakistan, the defending champions, won the last edition in 2017, defeating arch-rivals India by 180 runs in a historic final at The Oval. Now, under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan will aim to repli?cate that success on home soil and reclaim their title.

Pakistan will begin their title defense on February 19 in the opening match against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. This match will be significant as it will set the tone for their campaign. The most highly anticipated encounter of the tournament will take place on February 23, when Pakistan faces arch-rivals India in Dubai. Given the historic rivalry between the two nations, this match is expected to be the highlight of the group stage. Pakistan’s final group-stage match will be against Bangladesh ??on February 27 in Rawalpindi, where they will aim to secure a semi-fi??nal berth.

Also READ: ICC announces warm-up fix??tures for the Champions Trophy 2025

Sarfaraz Ahmed names the winner of the Champions Trophy 2025

Sarfaraz, who led Pakistan to t??heir h??istoric Champions Trophy triumph in 2017, believed that Pakistan have a strong squad and a great chance of defending the title. He emphasized that several players from the 2017-winning team are still part of the squad, bringing invaluable experience to the side.

Speaking about Pakistan’s strengths, he particularly highlighted the importance of Babar Azam‘s batting. According to Sarfaraz, Babar has evolved into a more mature and dominant player compared to 2017, and his ability to anchor innings will be crucial for Pakistan. Alongside Babar, Fakhar Zaman‘s aggressive batting approach will be vital in providing quick starts at the top of the order.

On the bowling front, Sarfaraz further stated that the Pakistan boasted a formidable pace attack with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf leading the charge. Sarfaraz pointed out that both bowlers are in excellent form and possess the ability to dismantle any batting lineup. Their pace, swing, and accuracy make them dangerous prospects, especially in home c?onditions. Additionally, Rizwan’s captaincy and wicketkeeping skills are expected to provide stability to the team.

“Pakistan have a really good chance of defending that title and I think they have a strong team. Some of the boys from 2017 are still there and we’re talking about some of the best – especially Babar Azam. He is a different Babar to the one that played in 2017, a more mature player and a dominant player in the game. His batting will be so important for Pakistan and so will Fakhar Zaman’s. With the ball, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf are brilliant bowlers and are playing well. The captain, Mohammad Rizwan, is also a wicketkeeper-batter, which worked pretty well for me back in 2017!,” Sarfaraz was quoted as saying by the ICC.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Here are the com??plete squads of a??ll 8 teams

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Pakistan‘s journey in recent ICC tournaments has been marked by highs and lows under Babar Azam‘s captaincy. Following a promising semifinal finish in the T20 World Cup 2021 and a runner-up position in 2022, where they lost to England, expectations were high for the team entering the T20 World Cup 2024. However, early losses to the USA and India in the group stage dashed their hopes of advancing further. Despite rallying with victories over Canada and Ireland, their campaign?? e?nded prematurely, highlighting inconsistency and performance challenges.

Criticism and calls for structural reforms in Pakistan cricket

The team’s underwhelming performance in the 2024 edition has triggered criticism from former players and analysts. Sarfaraz Ahmed, a successful ICC trophy-winning captain for Pakistan, has been vocal about the need for comprehensive restructuring rather than superficial changes. He has advocated for reducing the selection committee to three members, emphasizing that the recent removal of figures like Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq does not address the deeper issues affecting Pakistan’s cricketing strategy and performance.

“Major surgery is required if at all we want to put the system on the right track. There should be a three-member selection committee, and mere sacking Wahab and Abdul Razzak would not be enough. Not even Asad Shafiq (a silent spectator) and Mohammad Yousaf are capable of delivering,” Sarfaraz was quoted as saying by Onecricket.

Also READ: Wasim Akram names his choice for P?akistan’s captain?cy after their T20 World Cup 2024 exit

Sarfaraz Ahmed names Babar Azam’s replacement as a captain

Amidst the team’s fluctuating fortunes, questions have emerged about Babar’s effectiveness as a leader. While Babar has showcased his batting prowess, concerns linger over his ability to steer the team through crucial tournaments and maintain consistency in performance. Sarfaraz has openly suggested Mohammad Rizwan as a potential alternative for captaincy in white-ball formats, citing Rizwan’s strong domestic and franchise cricket performances as evidence of his leadership potential.

“Rizwan has proved his captaincy credentials by helping KPK win all domestic events in the past while his performance as Multan Sultans�?captain has been consistent over the years. He is the best choice for the job. Babar Azam is low in confidence and should not be considered for the job,” Sarfaraz concluded.

Also READ: ‘Who was the Einstein who made Babar Azam captain?�?: Shoaib Akhtar rips apart Pakistan skipper after ?abysmal T20 World Cup 2024 performance

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In the midst of the fervent cricketing discussions, prominent Pakistan cricketer Sarfaraz Ahmed found himself at the centre of attention following speculations about his alleged immigration to the United Kingdom. However, in a recent development, the seasoned player took it upon himself to dispel the swirling rumours and clarify his position on this p??eculiar news.

With candour and conviction, he addressed the speculation, providing insights to set the record straight. This move not only ended the unfounded rumours but also showcased Sarfaraz’s commitment to transparency and focus on his cricketing career.

What reports suggest about Sarfaraz Ahmed?

Recent reports suggested that Sarfaraz, exp??eriencing a sense of disillusionment and uncertainty about his future, has taken the decisive step to d?epart from Pakistan. Alongside his wife and two children, he has made the significant move to London, UK.

Notably, this wicketkeeper-batter remains an integral part of the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The unexpected nature of this development left fans and cricket enthusiasts intrigued as they grappled with the evolving narrative surrounding Sarfaraz’s personal and professional journey.

Also READ – Twitter reac??tions: Iftikhar Ahmed’s sizzling bowling helps Pakistan beat New Zealand in 5th T20I to avoid series whitewash

Sarfaraz Ahmed’s clarification

In a recent interview with a Pakistani media outlet, Sarfaraz vehemently dismissed the speculations surrounding his alleged departure to the UK. The former captain refuted the claims, asserting that there is no truth to the rumours c??irculating in the media. Expressing his disbelief, the 36-year-old emphasized that he could not even entertain the thought of leaving Pakistan and criticized the media for disseminating w?hat he deemed as false and fabricated news.

“I can’t even think of leaving Pakistan. Confirm before running such fabricated news. Sad to see such news,” Sarfaraz said during an intervie?w with Samaa Digital?.

Also READ: Top 5 leadin??g run-scorers in India vs England Test series

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In a commanding display of cricketing prowess during the first test of the Pakistan tour of Australia, the hosts have not only exhibited dominance with the bat but have also unleashed havoc upon Pakistan’s batting order with their formidable bowling attack.

Australian bowlers orchestrated a remarkable perfor??mance on Day 3 at Perth, leaving the visitors struggling to hold their ground.

A standout moment that encapsulated the brilliance of the Aussie bowling was the dismissal of the seasoned wicket keeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed by Mitchell Starc.

Mitchell Starc’s classy delivery sends Sarfaraz packing

The pivotal moment unfolded on the fourth delivery of the 76th over when Starc unleashed a full delivery, strategically landing it around the off stump while inducing an impressive degree of swing. Sarfaraz displayed a modest foot movement, resulting in a conspicuo??us gap between his bat and pads as he attempted an expansive drive.

The right-handed batter, losing his composure and shape in the process, found himself outplayed as the red-leather projectile precisely homed in on the off stump, ruthlessly uprooting it and dismantling the stumps in a striking display of Starc’s bowling masterclass.

Here’s the video:

SEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEED!

A thing of beauty from Mitchell Starc! #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance | #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/tc7VJf2zQP

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 16, 2023

Also READ: Australia veteran Nathan Lyon opens up on his?? retirement plans amidst Pakistan Tests

Pakistan’s dismal batting performance

After Australia posted an imposing first-innings total of 487, Pakistan batters initially exhibited resilience in their response. Openers Abdullah Shafique, who contributed 42 runs, and Imam-ul-Haq, who scored a commendable 62, forged a promising partnership of 74 runs for the first wicket. However, the Pat Cummins-led side staged a stunning comeback, dismantling the guests’ batting order. Despite the promising start, the charm with the willow seemed to diminish as no other batter could sustain the momentum or make a significant impact. The Australian bowlers orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, restricting Pakistan to 271 and reaffirming their dominance in the ongoing cricketing contest.

Also READ: AUS vs PAK: Simon?? Katich predicts emerging Pakistan talent ??to outshine Babar Azam in international cricket

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In the realm of sports, particularly cricket, blunders and seemingly trivial mistakes often play an important role, possibly leaving a lasting impact on a team’s performance. Such instances can turn the tide in unexpected ways, and a recent illustration of this unfolded during Pakistan‘s warm-up game against Prime Minister’s XI on their tour of Australia.

In a moment that showcased the fine line between success and setback, a seemingly innocuous error by wicket-keeper Sarfaraz Ahmed proved costly for the Shan Masood-led side. The blunder resulted in the team conceding seven runs, underscoring how even the smallest missteps can have significant repercussions in professional cricket’s dynamic and unforgiving arena.

Sarfaraz Ahmed’s silly mistake

The incident transpired during the 78th over when spinner Abrar Ahmed, delivering an off-cutter to batter Matt Renshaw, witnessed the ball being deftly stroked wide of mid-off, hurtling towards the boundary. A commendable effort by the fielder Meer Hamza involved a lengthy sprint, successfully preventing the ball from crossing the bounda?ry rope??.

However, what unfolded next turned the tide unfavourably for Pakistan. As the ball was thrown back to the bowler’s end, the relay continued with Babar Azam delivering a swift throw towards Sarfaraz.

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Sarfaraz’s inadvertent miss allowed the ball to elude him completely, soaring over the boundary fence in a moment that highlighted the fragility of precision. This mishap conceded four runs from the boundary, coupled with three runs that the batters managed to run, ultimately adding consequential seven runs to the PM XI’s scoreboard. In the intricate tapestry of cricket, this mistake underscored how a sequence of small errors can swiftly alter the complexion of a game.

Here is the video:

You don't see this every day! Matthew Renshaw brings up his half-century … with a seven! #PMXIvPAK pic.twitter.com/0Fx1Va00ZE

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 8, 2023

Also READ: Racial word used during Prime Ministe?rs XI vs Pakistan warm-up match; Cricket Australia issues clarification

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As the Pakistan cricket team gears up for their highly-anticipated Test series against Australia, a heated exchange between two players has garnered attention during a net practice session in Canberra. The incident involving Sarfaraz Ahmed and Saud Shakeel has become the talk of the ??town, overshadowing the ongoing 4-day warm-up match against Prime Ministers XI.

Shan Masood shines with century

In the warm-up match, Pakistan, batting first, displayed resilience with a notable performance from newly-appointed Test captain Shan Masood. The left-handed opener smashed a ce?ntury, remaining unbeate??n at 121 after facing 74 overs in the first innings.

War of words unveiled

However, the spotlight shifted from the on-field action to?? a video capturing a war of words between Sarfaraz Ahm??ed and Saud Shakeel during a practice session in Canberra. The video, circulating on social media, reveals a tense conversation between the former captain Sarfaraz and the promising young talent Shakeel from Karachi.

“For how long will I continue to be of use to you?” questioned Shakeel.

“You won’t be of any use to me. To begin with, I never instructed you to do anything. I never requested you to make a swap. I swapped with the person I intended to,” retorted Sarfaraz.

“You still made the swap, so I was beneficial to you,” countered Shakeel.

Video goes viral

An X (formerly Twitter) user shared the video capturing ?the intense exchange?? between Sarfaraz and Shakeel during the practice session. The post has since gone viral, sparking discussions among cricket enthusiasts and fans about the internal dynamics within the Pakistan team.

Also READ: Irfan P?athan names? a spinner RCB should acquire at IPL 2024 auction

Here is the video:

//twit?ter.??com/BukhariLeo14/status/1731713929695350959

Also READ: Brian Lara picks the modern-day cricketer who could ?break his world record scores of 400* and 501*

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Mohammad Rizwan has been named as the concussion substitute for Sarfaraz Ahmed in?? the ongoing second Test match between Pakistan a?nd Sri Lanka. The decision marks the first time Pakistan has utilized a c?on??cussion substitute in Test cricket, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The incident occurred during the afternoon session of the third day’s play when Sarfaraz faced a bouncer from Sri Lankan pacer Asitha Fernando. Sarfaraz was hit on his head while ducking a bouncer in the afternoon session on Day 3. Although the ball we??nt for four leg byes, the impact on Sarfaraz was evident.

Following the blow, Sarfaraz underwent a mandatory concussion test in accordance with the regulations. He returned to bat and played for another five overs without any apparent issues. But a few moments later, Sarfaraz signaled the Pakistan physiotherapist, Cliffe Deacon, and gestured towards ?his head where he had been struck. As a precautionary me?asure, the wicketkeeper-batter walked off the field after a couple of minutes.

In adherence to the concussion substitution regulations, the match officials were provided with an official assessment of the concussion. Pakistan’s request for a concussion substitute was subsequently accepted by match referee David Boon.

“Sarfaraz Ahmed has been replaced by Mohammad Rizwan as a concussion substitute in the ongoing second Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Singhalese Sports Club after match referee David Boon accepted the Pakistan team management’s request for the substitution,” said PCB in a statement.

The statement also mentioned that Sarfaraz Ahmed remains under the observation of the PCB’s medical panel following the incident.

“Sarfaraz was hit on his head while ducking a bouncer by Asitha Fernando in the afternoon session on day three. He remains under the observation of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s medical panel,” the statement added.

Notably, this is the first instance of Pakistan utilizing a concussion substitute in Test cricket. Previously, they have had employed the concussion substitute rule in international cricket when Kamran Ghulam replaced Haris Sohail during the third ODI agai?nst New Zealand in January earlier this year.

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Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has shared his opinion on the next possible all-format captain for the national team. Currently, Pakistan is led by star cricketer Babar Azam, who has enjo?yed n??otable successes during his captaincy tenure.

Under Babar’s leadership, Pakistan achieved a memorable victory against arch-rivals India in the 2021 T20 World Cup. The team also reached the final of the tournament, although they faced a defeat against England. However, Babar’s captaincy has faced criticism, particularly in Test matches.

Pakistan failed to reach the finals of the World Test Championship (WTC) in both 2021 and 2023 cycles. Additionally, they suffered defeats in home Test series against Australia and England, leading to scrutiny of Babar’s effectiveness in the longest format of the game.

When discussing the potential future captain, Sarfaraz, who himself served as Pakistan’s captain, suggested all-rounder Shadab Khan as a strong candidate. Sarfaraz emphasized the importance of having a versatile player who can excel in various cricke??ting scenarios.

The former skipper expressed his confidence in Shadab’s capabilities, highlighting his ability to perform effectively across all three formats of the game, be it One-Day Internationals (ODIs), Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), or Test cricket. Sarfaraz picked the name of Shadab after he was asked about which player, among Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shadab, has the potential to become Pakistan’s all-format captain in the future.

“Shadab Khan,” replied Sarfaraz Ahmed witho??ut any hesitation during a YouTube podacast.

“The batting order at which he plays, he can adjust in the team, or if you play overseas or play Test cricket, you need to play with five bowlers. Among those five bowlers, your fifth bowler will be your all-rounder, who can bat and bowl both. Whether we talk about one-day cricket or T20 cricket, he [Shadab] can adjust himself in all three formats,” added Sarfaraz.

Notably, earlier this year in March, Shadab was given the responsibility of leading the Pakistan side in the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. However, it turned out to be a moment of disappointment for the Men in Green as they suffered a historic defeat, losing the series 2-1 under Shadab’s captaincy.

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Wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed in the recently concluded Test series between Pakistan and New Zealand, scored a brilliant century and helped the Men in Green in avoiding another defeat ??at home.

Sarfaraz, who was making a comeba??ck in the team after a long gap, on the final day of the second Test, scored his 4th century in Karachi, ending an 8-year drought in the longest format.

The 35-year-old was picked in the final XI over Mohammad Rizwan, and the former didn’t let the selectors down.

In the t??wo-match leg against the Bl??ack Caps, Sarfaraz scored 319 runs and was adjudged Man of the Series for his noteworthy performance. He scored 3 fifties in his first three innings and then scored a match-saving ton on the last day of 2nd Test.

It was an important game for Pakistan as they had already faced a whitewash at home against England in 2022.

After Sarfaraz’s 118 (176) defining knock, the series ended in a draw. He also won the Player of the Match award for his contribution in the second game.

While Pakistan skipper Babar Azam celebrated the former captain’s ton joyously and gave him a standing ovation, Sarfaraz’s wife and other family members were seen in tears of joy.

This moment 💚

Sarfaraz delivers on his home ground 👏#PAKvNZ | #TayyariKiwiHai pic.twitter.com/LoIPI9HrcG

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 6, 2023

Since the first match was also a draw, the Test rubber ended 0-0 and New Zealand’s hopes of winning a series in Pakistan after 53 years were shattered.

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