Pakistan, the host nation for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, has yet to announce its squad for the tournament, making it the only team among the eight participants still undecided. The other teams—India, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan—have already declared their lineups, leaving many to wonder why Pakistan is taking so long.
Provisional Deadline Passed
The ICC set an initial deadline of January 12 for teams to submit their provisional squads, with flexibility to make changes until February 11. While some nations, such as India, took additional time, Pakistan has not provided any clarity on its delay, even as the tournament’s start date of February 19 draws closer.
Concerns Over Saim Ayub’s Fitness
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali speculated that the delay may hinge on the fitness of opening batter Saim Ayub. Ayub, who has been instrumental with the bat—amassing 515 runs in just 9 ODIs, including two centuries—suffered an ankle injury during the Test series against South Africa. His participation remains uncertain, which could have a significant impact on Pakistan’s plans.
“Pakistan is not scared; they are just unsure of the right approach,” Basit said on his YouTube channel. “The primary issue is whether Saim Ayub will be fit to play. Without him, the opening pair loses its balance.”
Challenges in the Middle Order
Basit also highlighted the underperformance of Pakistan’s middle order as a pressing concern. He suggested that the team’s reliance on its top-order batsmen, particularly against pace attacks, further complicates matters.
“Pakistan’s No. 5, 6, and 7 positions are shaky. They need players who can handle fast bowlers, especially with the high pace expected in the Champions Trophy,” Basit explained. He also pointed out the importance of Saud Shakeel in the middle order while expressing doubts over the inclusion of T20 specialists like Khushdil Shah in the 50-over format.
Alternatives if Saim Ayub Is Unavailable
If Ayub is ruled out, Pakistan may need to explore other options. Fakhar Zaman is a confirmed choice, while Imam-ul-Haq and emerging talent Haseebullah are under consideration. Other names, such as Abdullah Shafique and Usman Khan, seem less likely to make the cut due to their inconsistent form.
In the bowling department, Pakistan is expected to rely on its formidable pace attack, featuring Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain. Spin options include Shadab Khan, Abrar Ahmed, and young Sufiyan Muqeem, with Shadab’s all-round abilities being crucial for team balance.
Key Players to Watch
If Ayub is fit, the probable top-order combination will feature Ayub and Fakhar Zaman, followed by Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. However, if Ayub is unavailable, Shan Masood could step into the opening role.
The middle order will likely revolve around Saud Shakeel, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan, while spinners Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem might get their first taste of an ICC event.
Opening Match Looms
Pakistan begins its campaign on February 19 against New Zealand in Karachi, with Group A also including rivals India and Bangladesh. With the clock ticking, fans and analysts alike are eager for clarity on the team’s composition, which will undoubtedly shape their chances in this highly anticipated tournament.
