The final date for naming the provisional squads for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is January 12, and teams are racing against time to finalize their line-ups. The tournament, starting February 19, will be hosted in a hybrid model, with Pakistan as the primary host and India’s matches played in the UAE due to political tensions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This unique arrangement has added intrigu??e to what promises to be a competitive tournam??ent.

Pakistan’s preparation for the Champions Trophy

The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy is of paramount importance for Pakistan. They will enter the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2017 in England, defeating India in the final. With their new white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, leading the side, Pakistan has displayed impressive form, recently whitewashing both Australia and South Africa in ODI series. However, injury concerns to some key players could impact their campaign on home soil. Pakistan will look to capitalize on the flat batting tr?acks at ho?me, but their success depends on fielding a fit and balanced squad.

Here’s predicted Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025

1. Saim Ayub (Top Order Batter)

One of the standout players for Pakistan in recent months, Saim Ayub, faces an uncertain road to the Champions Trophy. The young left-hander, who has taken the cricketing world by storm with his phenomenal form in ODIs, suffered a fractured ankle duri??ng the second Test against South Africa. This injury has ruled him out for a minimum of six weeks, casting doubt over his participation.

Ayub’s ODI Performances

• Matches Played: 9
• Centuries: 3
• Fifties: 1
• Recent Contributions: Saim was instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against South Africa, scoring 235 runs in his last three ODIs.

If Saim remains unfit, Pakistan might lose a key player who has proven his mettle on flat batting tracks. Even if he regains fitness just before the tournament, a lack of match practice could limit his effectiveness. In his absence, Imam-ul-Haq or Fakhar Zaman expected to step in as an opener alongside Abdullah Shafique.
2. Abdullah Shafique (Top-Order Batter)

Shafique is known for his composed batting technique and ability to anchor the innings. With solid performances in Test and ODI cricket, he is a reliable?? option at the top of the order. His adaptability to different conditions will be vita?l on flat and spin-friendly tracks. Shafique’s role will be crucial in providing Pakistan with steady starts in the Champions Trophy.

3. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicketkeeper)

Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and leadership make him a key figure for Pakistan. As the new white-ball captain, Rizwan has excelled in guiding the team ??and maintaining his form with the bat. His wicketkeeping skills add an edge, making him a complete package. Rizwan’s ability to stabilize the innings under pressure will be invaluable in high-stake??s matches.

4. Babar Azam (Top-Order Batter)

Babar Azam, one of the world’s best batters, will carry the weight of Pakistan’s batting hopes. His exquisite stroke play and consistency make him the backbone of the batting lineup. Babar thrives in ODI cricket, and his performances in ICC events have always been noteworthy. His experience and calm demeanor will be crucial in navigating tough situati??????????????????????????ons.

5. Irfan Khan (Top-Order Batter)

Irfan Khan, a promising talent, adds depth to Pakistan’s top order. With a strong domestic record, he has shown the ability to play long innings and handle pressure. His elegant batting style and knack for building partnerships make him a valuable asset. Irfan’s inclusion offers Pakistan flexibility in?? shaping their batting st?rategy.

Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakha??r Zaman predicts his four semifinalis??ts of Champions Trophy 2025

6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle-Order Batter)

Tayyab Tahir is an aggressive middle-order batter with a reputation for finishing games. Known for his ability to counterattack, he can shift the momentum in Pakistan’s favor during the middle overs. His adaptability to different situations ??and spin-hitting p??rowess are key strengths. Tahir’s role will be vital in accelerating the run rate when required.

7. Usman Khan (Middle-Order Batter)

Usman Khan brings explosiveness to Pakistan’s middle order with his attacking batting style. His abi??lity to clear boundaries and handle high-pressure situations is a significant asset. Usman’s recent performances in limited-overs cricket have solidified his position in the squad. He is expected to play the role of a game-changer in crunch moments.

8. Salman Agha (All-Rounder)

Salman Agha offers a balanced combination of solid batting and off-spin bowling. His versatility allows Pakistan to maintain flexibility in team composition. Salman’s ability to play crucial innings in the lower-middle order and bowl economical over?s makes him a key?? asset. His performance in the Champions Trophy could provide the team with vital breakthroughs.

9. Kamran Ghulam (Middle-Order Batter)

Kamran Ghulam is a dependable batter who brings stability to the lower middle order. His ability to rotate ?the strike and accelerate when needed adds depth to the lineup. Kamran’s consistent domestic performances make him a player to watch. He could play a pivotal role in building partnerships and finishing games.

10. Mohammad Hasnain (Fast Bowler)

Moha??mmad Hasnain’s raw pace and ability to extract bounce make him a threat on any surface. His knack for taking early wickets will be crucial in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Hasnain’s recent improvement??s in control and variations add to his effectiveness. He will play a key role in unsettling opposition batters with his fiery spells.

11. Sufiyan Muqeem (Left-Arm Wrist Spinner)

Sufiy?an Muqeem is a young and talented left-arm wrist spinner who has impressed with his accuracy. His ability to contain runs and pick up wickets in the middle overs will be vital on spin-friendly tracks. Muqeem’s variation and control make hi?m a valuable addition to the squad. His performance in the Champions Trophy could establish him as a rising star.

12. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)

Haris Rauf is Pakistan’s go-to bowler for pace and aggression. His ability to bowl at high speeds and deliver accurate yorkers makes him lethal at the death. Rauf’s knack for picking up crucial wickets under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. His role in leading the pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi will be?? pivotal.

13. Usama Mir (Leg-Spinner)

Usama Mir is an attacking leg-spinner who brings a wicket-taking option to the middle overs. His ability to deceive batters with flight and sharp turn makes him a key player. Usama’s recent performances have showcased his match-winning potential in white-ball cricket. ??He will play a crucial role in breaking partnerships during the Champions Trophy.

14. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)

Naseem Shah’s lethal pace and swing make him a formidable bowler with the new ball. His ability to bowl consistent lines and lengths adds control to Pakistan’s attack. Naseem has eme??rged as a dependable bowler in ICC events and pressure situations. His partnership with Shaheen Afridi will be crucial in dismantling opposition top orders.

15. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)

Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s spearhead, is known for his ability to strike early with the new ball. His deadly inswingers and pinpoint yorkers make him a match-winner in ODIs. Shaheen’s performances in ICC tournaments have consistently been top-notch. As a senior bowler, his role will be ins??trumental in leading the pace attack.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan legend appointed as mentor ??for the Afghanistan team

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a significant announcement regarding the upcoming tri-nation ODI series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa. The four match tri-nation series will be played from February 8 – February 14.

New venues for the Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand ODI tri-series

Initially planned to be held in Multan, the series has now been relocated to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. This move comes as part of the PCB’s ongoing efforts to enhance and upgrade key cricket venues across Pakistan in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The decision to host the?? series in Lahore and Karachi ensures that these premier venues will showcase the best facilities available for international cricket, offering players, officials, and fans a world-class experience.

Extensive upgrades and massive transformation at the iconic stadium

According to the Geo News, Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium is undergoing a massive transformation to provide a moder??n and state-of-the-art cricketing experience. The stadium’s seating capacity has been increased to accommodate 35,000 spectators, with newly installed seating that offers greater comfort and accessibility. One of the major highlights of the upgrades is the installation of 480 advanced LED lights, which will enhance broadcast quality and visibility for global audiences.

The reports further stated that, two massive digital replay screens – one measuring 80 feet x 30 feet and the other 22 feet x 35 feet – will soon be operational, offering fans an immersive in-match viewing experience. A modern hospitality enclosure for players and officials is also under construction and expected to be completed by January 25. The PCB has set the stage for the grand inauguration of the newly revamped venue, marking the beginning of a new era for Gaddafi Stadium later this month.

Also READ: Champions Tro??phy 2025: Pakistan legend appointed as mentor fo??r the Afghanistan team

Enhancements to meet international standards

The National Bank Stadium in Karachi has also undergone significant upgrades to ensure that it meets international standards for hosting top-tier cricket events. A new hospitality area h??as been established at the University End, providing enhanced facilities for player??s and officials during matches.

Furthermore, 350 LED lights have been installed to improve visibility and broadcast quality, ensuring the stadium’s capability to deliver high-quality cricket coverage for global audiences. These t??echnological advancements are complemented by the addition of 5,000 new seating options, which will significantly increase cap??acity and spectator comfort. With these upgrades, Karachi’s stadium is set to provide an ideal environment for competitive cricket, ensuring a seamless viewing experience for fans and optimal conditions for players.

Commitment to ICC Champions Trophy 2025

The PCB is committed to delivering world-class cricket facilities for the Champions Trophy 2025. Over 250 skilled workers are currently engaged in the renovation projects, working around the clock to meet the January 25 deadline. The upgraded Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi will serve as key venues for the tournament, offering world-class infrastructure for players and fans alike. The PCB’s proactive approach to improving cricketing facilities reflects its dedication to creating a seamless and unforgettable cricket e?xperience for both international teams and global audiences.

Also READ: I??CC fines Pakistan f?or over-rate violation against South Africa in the Cape Town Test

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