In a significant development for Pakistani cricket, Mohammad Rizwan has been named captain for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, signaling a new era for the team in the 50-over format. Announced on Friday (Jan 31), the squad combines seasoned players with promising talents, aiming to reclaim the glory of past victories.
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| Image Credits: Hindustan Times |
Rizwan, known for his impeccable wicket-keeping and consistent batting, steps into the captaincy role for the first time in an ICC event, with Salman Ali Agha as his deputy. This selection comes at a time when Pakistan cricket is looking to rejuvenate its approach under new leadership.
The squad includes familiar names like Babar Azam, whose captaincy stint has been notable in T20Is and Tests, and the dynamic Fakhar Zaman, whose explosive starts could set the tone for matches. The inclusion of Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel adds depth to both batting and bowling, offering flexibility in team composition.
However, the absence of Saim Ayub due to injury has paved the way for Kamran Ghulam and Tayyab Tahir to showcase their skills on the international stage. The bowling attack, spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi and supported by Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain, promises to be formidable, especially in home conditions.
This team will also play a tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, serving as crucial preparation before the Champions Trophy kicks off on February 19 in Karachi. With Rizwan at the helm, Pakistan eyes not just participation but a dominant performance in the tournament, aiming to leverage home advantage and the blend of experience and youth.
Squad: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Khushdil Shah, Salman Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah
