Pakistan’s Team Selection and Strategy
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s announcement of the 15-member team for the 2025 Champions Trophy has generated significant interest. While the team’s fast bowling department appears robust, there are concerns regarding the lack of a secondary spinner and a specialist opener. To address these shortcomings, national selector Asad Shafiq has indicated that Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel will partner with Fakhar Zaman at the start of the innings.
Playing XI and Batting Lineup
Pakistan’s playing XI for the Champions Trophy is likely to feature Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman as openers, followed by Saud Shakeel at number three. Captain Mohammad Rizwan will bat at number four, with Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Aga, and Khushdil Shah responsible for finishing the match. This lineup will provide a balance of experience and youthful energy.
Bowling Department and Strategy
The fast bowling department, comprising Shaheen Shah Afridi, Nasim Shah, and Haris Rauf, is expected to pose a significant threat to opposing teams. Abrar Ahmed will serve as the primary spinner, while Salman Ali Aga and Khushdil Shah will share the fifth bowling role. This combination will allow Pakistan to experiment with different bowling strategies and adapt to various playing conditions.
Prior to the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will participate in a triangular series against New Zealand and South Africa, starting on February 8. This series will provide an opportunity for the team to test their playing XI and make any necessary adjustments before the tournament.
The probable playing XI for the first match of the series is: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (captain and wicketkeeper), Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Aga, Khushdil Shah, Nasim Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed.
