Glenn Phillips has built a reputation as one of the finest fielders in world cricket, and he proved his brilliance once more during the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between Pakistan and New Zealand. His athleticism and sharp reflexes were on full display as he pulled off a jaw-dropping catch to dismiss Mohammad Rizwan. Over the years,?? Phillips has produced some stunning moments on the field, and this one added another highlight to his already impressive fielding resume. His ability to anticipate, move swiftly, and execute under pressure makes him one of the most reliable fielders in the game today.

Glenn Phillips takes a one-handed stunner to get rid of Mohammad Rizwan

The sensational moment unfolded on the final delivery of the 10th over. William O’Rourke bowled a short and wide delivery, and Rizwan, looking to capitalize, unleashed a powerful cut shot. However, Phillips had other plans. He dived to his left, stretched out his left hand, an?d plucked the ball out of the air in an unbelievable display of agility. The sheer athleticism and timing of the catch left everyone in awe, making it an ear??ly contender for one of the greatest catches in cricket history.

The crowd erupted in disbelief as replays showcased Phillips’ impeccable reflexes and positioning. Even Rizwan, who was confident in his shot, looked stunned as he walked back to the pavilion. The New Zealand players gathered around Phillips to celebrate his brilliance, recognizing the impact of his fielding effort in a high-pressure game.

Here is the video:

Also READ: PAK vs NZ: Here’s why Fakhar Za??man didn�??�t open in Champions Trophy 2025 opener

Pakistan in trouble during their chase of 321

Pakistan found themselves in deep trouble as they struggled to build momentum in their run chase. After 23 overs, they were reeling at 72/3, having lost key batters Saud Shakeel, Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman. With a daunting target ahead, Pakistan needed a significant partnership to keep their hopes alive aga?inst a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack.

Also WATCH: Abra??r Ahmed ?outfoxes Devon Conway with a wrong’un in Champions Trophy 2025

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In the high-stakes world of international cricket, where every boundary and wicket carries the weight of a nation’s hopes, the role of family support cannot be overstated. As Pakistan prepare to defend its Champions Trophy title on home soil after 29 years, the spotlight isn’t just on the players but also on the p??artners who stand steadfastly behind them. These wives and girlfriends (WAGs) often remain out of the public eye, yet their emotional resilience and unwavering support form the bedrock of the players�?mental fortitude. From managing the pressures of fame to nurturing personal bonds amid gruelling schedules, these women embody strength and grace. While some prefer privacy, others embrace the limelight, creating a fascinating tapestry of love, legacy, and loyalty. Let’s delve into the lives of the partners of Pakistan’s  ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad, celebrating their contributions to the team’s journey.

Mohammad Rizwan & Naeema Begum: The captain’s quiet strength

Leading Pakistan as captain, Mohammad Rizwan is known for his tenacity on the field, but his wife, Naeema Begum, has been his anchor off it. Married in 2015, Naeema has chosen to stay away from the public eye, with no photographs or interviews available. He??r discretion underscores Rizwan’s preference for privacy, allowing him to focus on his dual roles as leader and wicketkeeper-batter. Despite her low profile, teammates acknowledge her calming influence, especially during Rizwan’s career-defining moments, such as Pakistan’s 2021 T20 World Cup campaign and now the Champions Trophy defense.

Also READ: Younis Khan predicts the ‘match winner?�???of Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025

Haris Rauf & Muzna Masood Malik: A fusion of fashion and firepower

Speedster Haris Rauf shares his life with Muzna Masood Malik, a former fash??ion model whose poise complements his fiery bowling. The couple married in 2022, blending athleticism and elegance. Muzna’s social media presence offers glimpses of their life, showcasing their shared love for travel and style. Her visibility contrasts with many cricket spouses, but she uses her platform to champion Haris�?career, often seen cheering him on during matches. As Haris battles injuries ahead of the tournament, Muzna’s support will be pivotal in his quest to dominate on home pitches.

Shaheen Afridi & Ansha Afridi: A union of cricketing dynasties

When Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s pace spearhead, married Ansha Afridi in 2023, it united two cricketing lineages. Ansha is the daughter of Pakistan legend Shahid Afridi, and her deep understanding of the sport’s demands has made her an invaluable confidante. While she maintains a private life, her occasional public appearances—such as during the 2023 World Cup—highlight her pride in Shaheen’s achievements. With Shaheen leading Pakistan’s bowling attack, Ansha’s insights into handling pressure could prove crucial in high-stakes games, including the marquee clash against India.

Private lives: Partners away from the spotlight

For many in the squad, including Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, and Naseem Shah, relationships remain closely guarded. Babar, Pakistan’s former captain and batting linchpin, has never publicly acknowledged a partner, prioritizing his cricketing legacy. Similarly, young stars like Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Hasnain and Abrar Ahmed have kept their personal lives under wraps, reflecting a cultural preference for privacy. Even Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah, whose selections sparked debate, avoid media scrutiny off the field. This discretion allows players to shield their families fr??om the intense public gaze, focusing instead on their performances.

Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Yuvraj, Sidhu, Inzamam and Afridi make ??India vs Pakistan prediction

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The highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to ignite cricketing action, with the tournament opener featuring Pakistan and New Zealand on Feb?ruary 19 at the ?National Bank Stadium, Karachi.

High-stakes ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener

This ninth edition of the prestigious event will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, bringing together the top eight teams from the ODI World Cup 2023. The clash between Pakistan and New Zealand holds immense significance, especially given their recent encounters in an ODI tri-series in Pakistan, where the Blackcaps emerged victorious on both occasions. While Pakistan showcased their mettle in ODI cricket post-World Cup with notable series wins against Australia and South Africa, their struggles in the tri-series have raised concerns. However, playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the Men in Green will aim for a strong start to their Champions Trophy campaign. The result of this opening game could shape their momentum, especially with the high-stakes clash between Pakistan and India scheduled for February 23.

Key concerns ahead of the tournament opener

Pakistan have concerns in the batting and bowling departments. The absence of in-form opener Saim Ayub due to injury has left a void at the top of the order that could prompt management to consider Babar Azam as a potential opener alongside Fakhar Zaman. Fakhar, who made a return to the squad last year, has been in impressive form and will carry additional responsibility in the absence of a specialist opener. The middle order will revolve around Mohammad Rizwan, who is not only leading the team but also in outstanding form, having recently smashed an unbeaten century against South Africa. Salman Ali Agha, who partnered Rizwan in a record stand in ?that same game, is another?? crucial component of the batting order.

While Pakistan’s batting depth offers promise, the major concern lies in their bowling attack, which lacked sharpness during the recently concluded home tri-series. The pace unit, led by Shaheen Afridi, raised alarms over their effectiveness in breaking partnerships. Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf will be key figures in providing support, but the absence of a specialist spin option remains a worry. Abrar Ahmed will be the lone front-line spinner, with additional assistance expected from part-time options Khushdil Shah and Salman Agha. Given the conditions in Karachi, where reverse swing and spin could play a ??decisive role later in the innings, Pakistan’s bowlers will need to step up to avoid conceding another defeat to New Zealand.

Also READ: India’s group-stage rivals: Evaluating Pa??kistan, New Zealand & Bangladesh in Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan’s predicted playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 game against New Zealand:

1. Fakhar Zaman (Opener)

Returning to form after a fallout with the PCB, Fakhar has shown he can be a game-changer at the top. His recent performances make him an important part of the opening pair. Without Saim Ayub, Fakhar’s role becomes crucial in giving the team a strong start in this high-pressure match.

2. Babar Azam (Opener)

As Pakistan’s captain, Babar is the team’s mainstay in the batting order. Known for his consistency and leadership, Babar’s ability to anchor the innings and adjust his game depending on the situation will be vital, especially in early overs against New Zealand’s pace attack.

3. Saud Shakeel (Top-order Batter)

Shakeel’s rise has been noteworthy, with his solid technique and stability in the middle order. Shakeel will play a crucial role in building partnerships and stabilizing the innings if early wickets fall, especially in conditions where New Zealand’s seamers could exploit early movement.

4. Mohammad Rizwan (WK & Captain)

Captain Rizwan has been in exceptional form, notably scoring an unbeaten century in recent matches. As the captain and wicketkeeper, Rizwan’s leadership and batting prowess will be key, especially in the middle order where Pakistan’s batting has occasionally faltered.

5. Salman Ali Agha (Middle-order Batter)

Salman Agha has proved his worth with crucial middle-order contributions, notably during the recent record partnership with Rizwan. His ability to rotate strike and accele?rate when ??needed makes him a valuable asset in the powerplay and death overs.

6. Tayyab Tahir (Middle-order Batter)

Tahir will be the wild card in the lineup. Though he has limited experience, he brings an aggressive approach that could prove beneficial in shifting momentum in the middle overs against New Zealand’s spinners and pacers.

7. Khushdil Shah (All-rounder)

Khushdil’s role will be pivotal as an all-rounder. Known for his power-hitting in the middle order, he also offers useful left-arm spin, making him a potential match-winner in conditions that suit spinners, especially when Pakistan looks to break partnerships.

8. Shaheen Afridi (Fast Bowler)

Afridi is one of the best pacers in world cricket and will be Pakistan’s main threat with the ball. His ability to generate pace and swing makes him a prime candidate to exploit Karachi’s pitch conditions, which can aid pacers in the early overs.

9. Naseem Shah (Fast Bowler)

Naseem is another key figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack. Despite some recent inconsistency, his raw pace and ability to extract bounce will be crucial, especially against New Zealand’s top-order, which is known for its vulnerability to express pace.

10. Haris Rauf (Fast Bowler)

Haris brings pace and aggression to Pakistan’s attack. His ability to bowl at the death and break partnerships will be vital, especially against New Zealand’s middle-order hitters. Rauf’s accurate yorkers and high pace can be game-changers in tight situations.

11. Abrar Ahmed (Spinner)

As Pakistan’s primary spin option, Abrar will have the responsibility of controlling the middle overs and picking up wickets. His mystery spin and variations could be the key in the latter stages, ??particularly when conditions start to assist spinners. With little backup in the spin department, his performance will be critical.

Also READ: N?ot Babar Azam! Harbhajan Singh names a Pakistani star who can be a ?threat to India in Champions Trophy 2025

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Ahmed Shehzad has sharply criticized Pakistan’s cricket team captain Mohammad Rizwan for his tactical decisions leading up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Ahmed Shehzad unhappy with Pakistan captain’s decision-making abilities

In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Shehzad described Rizwan’s choice to bat first in the tri-series final against New Zealand as a “brainless decision,” highlighting a lack of understanding regarding pitch conditions.

“Pakistan’s bubble has burst ahead of the Champions Trophy,” said Shehzad on this YouTube channel. He noted that the pitch at Karachi’s National Stadium typically favours batting in the evening, yet Pakistan opted to set a target instead of chasing, which ultimately led to their defeat by five wickets.

“It was a mind-boggling decision (to bat first) because we had seen in the previous match that the pitch becomes better to bat on in the night, the ball doesn’t grip on the surface for the spinners. Still, the Pakistan team decided to bat first. Brainless decision, no clue,” added Shehzad,  pointing out at Pakistan’s record chase against South Africa at the same venue.

The former Pakistan opener also expressed his frustration over Rizwan’s decision to drop a specialist bowler in favour of an all-rounder, claiming that this move compromised the team’s bowling strength. He pointed out that Rizwan’s strategy seemed overly cautious, suggesting that the captain consistently chooses to play it safe rather than leveraging the team’s strengths.

“In his every decision, the Pakistan captain wants to play safe with batting, be it by being a spinner short in the Champions Trophy squad or this match, where they played (bowling all-rounder) Faheem Ashraf to have a longer batting line-up at the expense of (fast bowler) Mohammad Hasnain and still used him (Ashraf) for just two overs,” Shehzad analysed.

Also READ: Herschelle Gibbs takes a jibe at Babar Aza?m for his poor English-speaking ?skills

‘You are making so many mistakes’

The criticism comes at a challenging time for Pakistan cricket, as they have struggled with form and decision-making in recent tournaments. Shehzad lamented that such “childish decisions” could jeopardize their chances in the upcoming Champions Trophy, emphasizing that the team often relies on opponents’ mistakes rather than executing their own game plan effectively.

“In a final, you are making childish decisions…you are making so many mistakes in matches. You get a chance to win only when the opposition performs below par or don’t have their main players playing,�?said Shehzad.

As Pakistan prepares for the Champions Trophy, Shehzad’s comments underscore the mounting pressure on Rizwan and the team to deliver results and refine their strategies ahead of this significant international competition.

Also READ: New?? Zealand clinch ODI tri-series with? commanding 5-wicket win over Pakistan in the final

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New Zealand registered a clinical five-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final of the ODI Tri-Nation Series at the National Stadium in Karachi. Chasing a target of 243, the Black Caps reached the total in 45.2 overs, driven by strong performances from Daryl Mitchell (57), Tom Latham (56) and Devon Conway (48). Earlier, Pakistan posted 242 after contributions from Mohammad Rizwan (46) and Salman Agha (45), but Will O’Rourke’s four-wicket haul kept them in check. New?? Zealand’s composed chase e??nsured they lifted the trophy with 28 balls to spare.

Pakistan’s struggles with the bat

Pakistan opted to bat first but failed to build strong partnerships, losing wickets at regular intervals. Fakhar Zaman (10) and Saud Shakeel (8) fell cheaply, while Babar Azam (29) looked fluent but was dismissed in a caught-and-bowled dismissal. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha steadied the innings with a crucial 88-run stand, but neither could capitalize to post a big score. Tayyab Tahir’s aggressive 38 off 33 balls gave Pakistan some momentum, but late wickets restricted them to 242. O’Rourke (4/43) led the bowling attack effectively, with support from Michael Bracewell (2/38) and Mitchell Santner (2/20).

Also READ: PAK vs NZ: Babar Azam equals Hashim Amla’s historic ODI record i??n the Tri-Series final

New Zealand’s well-paced chase in the ODI tri-series final

New Zealand got off to a shaky start as Naseem Shah dismissed Will Young early, but Conway and Kane Williamson ensured stability with a composed 71-run partnership. Salman Agha broke the stand, dismissing Williamson (34), and Conway followed soon after for 48. However, Mitchell and Latham took charge, adding 87 runs to tilt the game in New Zealand’s favor. Mitchell’s fluent 57 and Latham’s 56 guided the team close to victory, and Glenn Phillips�?quickfire 20 not out ensured they cross??ed the finish line with ease. Naseem (2/43) was Pakistan’s most effective bowler, but the total proved insufficient agains?t New Zealand’s well-structured batting effort.

Will O’Rourke and Daryl Mitchell shine in title victory

O’Rourke’s outstanding four-wicket spell was instrumental in restricting Pakistan below 250, ensuring New Zealand had a manageable chase. His crucial wickets, including Rizwan and Fakhar, kept Pakistan from accelerating in the final overs. On the batting fron??t, Mitchell��s solid knock proved pivotal, with his ability to rotate strike and find boundaries easing the pressure. Tom Latham provided ideal support, and New Zealand’s compo?sed approach highlighted their batting depth. With this win, New Zealand claimed the tri-nation series title, showcasing superior balance and execution in all departments.

New Zealand won the tri-nation series without losing a single match 🏆#Cricket #PAKvNZ #newzealandcricket pic.twitter.com/3ZlFeM8pue

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 14, 2025

Also READ: Pakistan’s Sarfaraz Ahmed predicts the winner of Champions? Trophy ??2025

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Pakistan got off to a flying start against New Zealand during the inaugural match of the ODI tri-series among Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa. The match is being played at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and is currently highlighted by the magnificent catch which Mohammad Rizwan took at the back of the stumps which marked the end of Will Young’s brief in??nings in the very first over ?of the game.

Mohammad Rizwan takes a screamer to send Will Young back to the pavilion

The incident occurred during the first over of the New Zealand innings as the visitors won the toss and decided to bat first. The skipper handed over Shaheen Afridi the responsibility to strike? early and exert pressure on the Blackc??aps batting line-up.

Pakistan’s pace sensation did exactly that as he bowled a breathtaking delivery outside off which tempts Young to play it towards the third man area. The ball takes a slight edge off his b?at instead and sails behind the stumps only to be grabbed by Rizwan to complete the dismiss?al.

The dismissal sent early waves of thril?l and excitement in the contest as Pakistan managed to put themselves in a commanding position by striking early on in the game. Young was sent back while the team’s total was just 4 runs. The New Zealand opene??r had earlier placed the previous delivery from Shaheen towards the boundary line.\

Here’s the video 

Off to a special start at the Gaddafi Stadium �?a href="//twitter.com??/iShaheenAfridi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" data??-wpel-link="exclude">@iShaheenAfridi continues his habit of taking first-over wickets 🌟#3Nations1Trophy | #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/h7ESG1mTPF

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 8, 2025

Also Read: Pakistan Cricket Board provides medical ?and fit??ness update regarding Saim Ayub

Tri-series action commences in Pakistan

Ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025, the ODI tri-series in Pakistan is seen as a major dress rehearsal for the teams to acclimatize to the sub-continent conditions. The series features the renovated venues for the prestigious ICC tournament. The three teams are set to play each other once with the finals to be played at the National Stadium in Karachi on February 14. Following the 50-overs contest between Pakistan and New Zealand, the home side is set to face the South African team on February 12 while the Blackcaps will face the Proteas in an all-visitors clash on Februa??ry 10.

Also Read: South Africa pick 6 uncapped players in their squad for t??he first game of ODI tri-series in Pakistan

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Pakistan are set to host a high-stakes tri-nation ODI series featuring South Africa and New Zealand from February 8 to February 14, 2025. This much-anticipated tournament will serve as a vital preparatory event ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The series promises plenty of competitive cricket as the three teams battle for early momentum on home soil. With the host nation looking to build confidence and sharpen their skills, the tri-series also offers South?? Africa and New Zealand a unique opportunity to assess local conditions and adapt their strategies. Overall, the series is designed to be both a entertaining contest and an ideal dress rehearsal for the mega event commencing on February 19.

Detailed schedule and venue breakdown

The action kicks off in Lahore at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, where Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the opener. Following this, the Kiwis will face South Africa in the second match on Monday, February 10, also at Lahore. After two ??high-energy encounters in the capital, the series shifts to Karachi’s National Stadium for the next phase. Here, the third match, featuring Pakistan versus South Africa, is slated for Wednesday, February 12. Th??e tournament will culminate in a nail-biting final on Friday, February 14, at the same Karachi venue, where the top two teams from the round-robin stage will vie for the trophy. This four-match format ensures that every game counts as teams battle for supremacy in both preparation and points.

Strategic importance ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

As a critical warm-up ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the tri-series holds immense strategic value for all participating sides. The series not only offers ?competi??tive match practice but also allows teams to gather essential insights into pitch behavior, weather conditions, and local dynamics.

For Pakistan, the tournament is a golden opportunity to fine-tune their squad and build the momentum necessary for success in the upcoming Champions T??rophy, where matches are set to be held i??n Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi. Meanwhile, South Africa and New Zealand will use the series to gauge the challenges posed by subcontinental conditions, ensuring they enter the global event with well-adapted strategies and a clearer understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

Also READ: Pakistan’s best playing XI fo?r the ODI tri-series agai??nst South Africa and New Zealand

ODI tri-series: Complete schedule and venue details

Squads: Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand

• Pakistan: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Kamran Ghulam, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Rizwan (c), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Muhammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi
• South Africa: Temba Bavuma (c), Eathan Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Gerald Coetzee, Junior Dala, Wiaan Mulder, Mihlali Mpongwana, Senuran Muthusamy, Gideon Peters, Meeka-eel Prince, Jason Smith, Kyle Verreynne
• New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy

Broadcast & Live Streaming details:

• India: Sony Sports Network, Fancode
• USA and Canada: Sling TV �?Willow TV [Sign up here]
• Bangladesh: T Sports, Tapmad
• UK: ARY Digital
• Pakistan: Ten Sports, PTV Sports HD, A Sports, Tamasha, Tapmad & Myco
• New Zealand: Sports Central Official YouTube channel
• South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa: SuperSport
• MENA & Southeast Asia: Cricbuzz
• Sri Lanka: Dialog

Also READ: New Zealand’s best playing XI for the ODI tri-series against Pakistan and South?? Africa

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As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, Pakistan are set to host New Zealand and South Africa in a thrilling ODI tri-series. The series will commence on February 8 with Pakistan facing New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The action continues at the same venue on February 10, as New Zealand takes on South Africa in a crucial encounter. The tournament then moves to Karachi, where Pakistan will go head-to-head against South Africa at the National Bank Stadium on February 12. The series will culminate with the grand final on February 14, also at the ??National Bank Stadium, determining the ultimate champion.

Lahore and Karachi: Battlegrounds for the Tri-Series

This highly anticipated four-match series, set to take place from February 8 to 14, provides a crucial platform for teams to fine-tune their strategies and acclimatize to the challenging cricketing conditions in Pakistan. As the tournament unfolds, players will have the ??????????????????????????opportunity to test their skills against top-level competition, making necessary tactical adjustments ahead of future international commitments.

The series will be staged across two of Pakistan’s most iconic cricketing venues—Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi—both of which have undergone extensive redevelopment to enhance the playing experience. The first two matches will be hosted in Lahore, known for its electrifying cricket atmosphe?re and passiona??te crowd support. Following these encounters, the action will shift to Karachi, where the final league match and the much-anticipated final will take place.

With state-of-the-art facilities and world-class infrast??ructure, these venues will serve as the perfect stage to highlight Pakistan’s commitment to hosting top-tier international cricket.

Also READ: Pakistan��s Wasim Akram pick ideal batting positio?ns for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in? Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan’s top-choice playing XI for the tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand

1. Babar Azam

Role: Opening batter
Impact: The backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup, Babar Azam is a consistent run-scorer and a reliable anchor in the middle order. His ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed makes him indispensable.
Strengths: Elegan??t stroke play, excelle?nt timing, and the ability to play both pace and spin with ease. He is also a strong leader and a calming presence in the team.

2. Fakhar Zaman

Role: Opening batter
Impact: Fakhar is a dynamic opener who can take the game away from the opposition in the powerplay. His aggressive approach sets the tone for the innings.
Strengths: Power-?hitting, ability to play big innings, and a strong record in high-pressure matches. His left-handedness adds variety to the top order.

3. Kamran Ghulam

Role: Middle-order batsman
Impact: Kamran Ghulam is a technically sound and versatile batsman who can adapt to different situations. He is known for his ability to build partnerships and play long innings.
Strengths: Solid defense, ability to rotat??e st?rike, and a good range of shots. His experience in domestic cricket makes him a reliable option in the middle order.

4. Saud Shakeel

Role: Middle-order batter
Impact: Saud Shakeel is a technically sound batter who can anchor the innings and accelerate when required. He is particularly effective against spin.
Strengths: Solid technique, ability to play long innings, and composure under pressure. His left-handedness adds bal?ance to the batting line-up.

5. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicket Keeper)

Role: Wicketkeeper-batter and captain
Impact: Rizwan is the heart of the team, providing stability in the middle order and exceptional glove work behind the stumps. His leadership skills and consistency make him a key player.
Strengths: Exce?llent temperament, ability to rotate strike, and a wide range of shots. His fitness and energy levels are also a major asset.

6. Salman Ali Agha

Role: All-rounder
Impact: Salman Ali Agha provides balance to the team with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. He is a handy off-spinner and a reliable middle-order batter.
Strengths: Versatility, ability to bowl tight lines, and a good striker of the ball ???in the middle overs.

7. Faheem Ashraf

Role: All-rounder
Impact: Faheem is a genuine all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. His medium-pace bowling and power-hitting make him a valuable asset.
Strengths: Ability to bowl in the death overs, lower-order hitting, and athleticism i??n the field.

8. Shaheen Afridi

Role: Fast bowler
Impact: Shaheen Afridi is Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, known for his ability to swing the ball and take early wickets. He is also effective in the death overs.
Strengths: Lethal inswingers, pac?e, and accuracy. His height gives him an extra bounce advantage.

9. Haris Rauf

Role: Fast bowler
Impact: Haris Rauf is a strike bowler who can bowl at high speeds and break partnerships. His yorkers and slower balls make him a threat in the death overs.
Strengths: Raw pace, ?aggressive bowlin??g, and the ability to bowl under pressure.

10. Naseem Shah

Role: Fast bowler
Impact: Naseem Shah is a young and talented fast bowler who can swing the ball at high speeds. He is particularly effective in the power play.
Strengths: Swing, accuracy, and the ability to bowl long? spells. His energy and aggression are also key strengths.

11. Abrar Ahmed

Role: Spin bowler
Impact: Abrar Ahmed is a mystery spinner who can trouble batters with his variations. He is particularly effective in the middle overs.
Strengths: Unorthodox spin, ??ability to take wickets in clusters, and control over line and length.

Also READ: No Pakistan! Z??aheer Khan predicts the semifinalists of Champions Troph?y 2025

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Legendary fast bowler and former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has weighed in on Pakistan’s batting strategy for the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Akram shared his thoughts on the batting positions of stalwarts like that of Babar Azam and white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan. His remarks come at a crucial time as Pakistan finalizes its squad and battin?g approach for the prestigious tournament.

Wasim Akram’s perspective on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan

Sharing his thoughts during a media interaction, Akram expressed confidence in Babar’s ability to excel as an opener and explained why he believes the star batter should take on this crucial role.

“I would like to see [Mohammad] Rizwan as a middle-order batter and maybe ask Babar to open the innings. Babar has a brilliant technique. If he plays 50 overs and scores a hundred, the batting will revolve around him,” Akram was quoted as ??saying by The Express Tribune.

Akram’s suggestion comes in the wake of Babar stepping up as an opener during Pakistan’s recent Test series against South Africa, where he replaced the injured Saim Ayub and impressed with a well-compiled half-century alongside Shan Masood. Given his ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a solid scoring rate, many experts now see Babar as an ideal candidate to partner Fakhar Zaman at the top in the Champions Trophy 2025.

Pakistan’s squad announcement for the Champions Trophy 2025

On January 31, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officially announced the 15-member squad for th??e upcoming tri-nation series and Champions Trophy 2025. The most notable inclusion was the return of aggressive opener Zaman, whose experience at the top will be vital for Pakistan. However, young left-handed batter Ayub was ruled out due to an ankle injury, creating an opening dilemma for the team.

Also READ: Pakistan’s W??asim Akram predicts the winner of Champions Trophy 2025

At the time of the squad announcement, chief selector Asad Shafiq indicated that either Babar or Saud Shakeel could be promoted to open the innings with Zaman, depending on pitch conditions and team requirements. Now, Akram ha??s added his voice to the debate, advocating for Babar Azam’s promotion to the opening slot in the Champions Trophy, citing his exceptional batting technique and ability to construct long innings as key advantages.

A rare ODI experiment in the white-ball cricket

Despite being a prolific batter in ODIs, Babar has rarely opened the innings in this format. In fact, he has done so only?? twice in ODIs, both in 2015, before cementing his place at No. 3 and No. 4, where he has consistently? delivered strong performances.

However, in T20Is, Babar has a wealth of experience as an opener. For more than two years, he and Rizwan formed Pakistan’s most successful T20I opening partnership, accumulating runs at an impressive average. While they were among the most consistent opening pairs in T20 cricket, their conservative approach and relatively low strike rates often drew criticism, leading to their eventual demotion from the opening slot. Now, with the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, there is renewed debate over whether Babar should be reinstated as an opener in ODIs – this time alongside Zaman.

Also READ: Ravi Shast??ri and Ricky Ponting predict the finalists?? of Champions Trophy 2025

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