With just over two weeks until the Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off, host nation Pakistan faces a significant setback as 22-year-old opener Saim Ayub has been ruled out of the tournament.
In response, Pakistan has recalled veteran opener Fakhar Zaman. However, Ayub’s absence will likely prompt a strategic shift, potentially moving star batter Babar Azam to the top of the order.
Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has commented on the situation, suggesting that Babar might have a built-in excuse if he doesn’t succeed in his adjusted role. If Babar performs, he will be praised for playing for Pakistan. If not, he may claim he was forced to open,” Ali commented on his YouTube channel. Despite the controversy, Ali was reassured that Babar’s position in the ODI team would remain secure, even if his performance in the Champions Trophy were subpar.
Read: Ricky Ponting Tips Pakistan as CC Champions Trophy 2025 Key Contender
Babar’s track record remains strong; he had a solid 2024 season, scoring 228 runs in just six ODI matches at an average of 57. Under the leadership of the new white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s ODI team has shown impressive form, securing consecutive series victories in Australia and South Africa.
The Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin soon, with Pakistan scheduled to face New Zealand in their opening match on February 19 in Karachi. This will be followed by a highly anticipated game against India in Dubai on February 23, and their last league match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.
The Pakistani squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 :
Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Babar Azam, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
