Pakistan is likely to make minimal changes to its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy with Fakhar Zaman expected to be brought in ahead of the prestigious tournament.
Sources indicate that only one change is anticipated, with the seasoned opener set for a return.
Ahead of the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will first participate in a tri-series against South Africa, with the squad for the tri-series largely mirroring the one set for the main tournament. However, Zaman's inclusion could significantly impact the competition, given his valuable experience.
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The fitness of young player Saim Ayub remains the deciding factor in finalizing the Champions Trophy squad. Ayub’s participation in the tournament hinges on his recovery, with sources stating that the selectors will await confirmation of his fitness before naming the final squad.
This delay could affect the final announcement, as the team is required to submit their preliminary list to the ICC a month prior to the event.
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The Champions Trophy, set to commence on February 12, 2025, requires Pakistan to finalise their squad by February 11 at the latest. The final list will be subject to ICC approval once submitted.
Players from the recent ODI series against South Africa, such as Muhammad Rizwan (captain), Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah are expected to feature prominently in both the tri-series and Champions Trophy squad.
The players named in the squad for the ODI series against South Africa include Muhammad Rizwan (captain and wicketkeeper), Abdullah Shafiq, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Muhammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Muqim, Tayyab Tahir, and Usman Khan.
