As the 2025 Champions Trophy draws closer, Pakistan enters the competition with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Following a turbulent build-up, which included some key players being sidelined, the team remains a potent force, with certain areas of concern.
With their captain Mohammad Rizwan in excellent form, Pakistan will look to leverage his leadership and batting prowess, while also addressing their bowling issues ahead of the prestigious tournament.
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Recent Form: A Story of Highs and Lows
Pakistan’s preparation for the Champions Trophy has been far from smooth. While they ended 2024 on a high with three series wins, including impressive victories in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, their form in the recent tri-series at home has been underwhelming. Despite chasing down their highest-ever ODI total to defeat South Africa in a high-scoring affair, Pakistan struggled against a full-strength New Zealand squad. The men in green lost two out of three matches, exposing their vulnerabilities.
The absence of Saim Ayub, a key performer in Pakistan’s recent successes, further dampened their preparations. Ayub’s injury left a noticeable gap in the side, prompting changes in the lineup. To fill the void, Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf have been recalled to the squad, but their inclusion raises questions about their recent form and pedigree. The team has been reshuffled, with Babar Azam opening the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman, who has looked promising since his return.
Batting Strengths: Rizwan’s Consistency and Leadership
When it comes to batting, Pakistan is heavily reliant on their captain Mohammad Rizwan, who has been in phenomenal form. Rizwan has firmly established himself as one of the most consistent players in the side, providing stability in a somewhat fragile middle order. His ability to adjust his game to suit any situation has been one of his standout qualities. His record-breaking partnership with Salman Ali Agha in the tri-series final was a testament to his match-winning potential.
“On days when the top-order doesn’t fire, they will need Rizwan’s consistency to keep them competitive,” said a member of the Pakistan team management. Rizwan’s ability to absorb pressure and dictate the terms of a chase is an invaluable asset for the team. He has shown time and again that he can thrive under pressure, making him the player to watch for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy.
Bowling Concerns: The Uncertain Pace Attack
While Pakistan has one of the most formidable batting lineups in world cricket, their bowling attack remains a major concern. The recent tri-series has exposed their bowling fragility, with Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf failing to consistently deliver the goods. While the trio remains talented, they have often been inconsistent, especially in high-pressure situations.
Adding to Pakistan’s bowling woes is their lack of spin options. With only Abrar Ahmed as a specialist spinner, Pakistan’s ability to control the middle overs in subcontinental conditions remains a question mark. The part-time spin options provided by Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha may not offer the depth needed to compete with stronger sides, making Pakistan’s bowling one of the most vulnerable aspects of their squad.
Key Stats: A Shift in the Squad Since 2017
The Champions Trophy will be a significant moment for Pakistan, as they come into the tournament as the defending champions. However, their squad is almost entirely different from the one that triumphed in 2017.
Only two players from the winning final—Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam—are part of the current squad. Despite the personnel changes, the team remains formidable, but much has changed in the eight years since they claimed the trophy.
First-Round Fixtures: A Tough Path Ahead
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign will begin with a tough group stage, with each match presenting a unique challenge. They will face the following teams:
- February 19: Pakistan vs New Zealand
- February 23: Pakistan vs India
- February 27: Pakistan vs Bangladesh
These encounters will be crucial in determining Pakistan’s chances of advancing to the semi-finals. The outcome of these matches will hinge on how well they adapt to the conditions and whether their key players can perform under pressure.
Pakistan’s Best XI
To stand a chance of defending their Champions Trophy title, Pakistan will need a near-perfect performance from their best XI, which is likely to include:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (capt & wk)
- Salman Ali Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
Reserves: Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Hasnain, Kamran Ghulam, Usman Khan
Players to Watch: Rizwan’s Influence and Fakhar’s Power
The player to watch for Pakistan is undoubtedly Mohammad Rizwan, whose form will be vital to the team’s success. His leadership, alongside his batting, provides a solid foundation. Rizwan’s consistency in the middle order, especially in tough situations, is the key to Pakistan’s chances in the tournament.
Fakhar Zaman, known for his explosive power at the top of the order, will also be crucial. If the openers can fire, Pakistan’s top order will be significantly strengthened, giving the team a real shot at defending their title.
Defending the Title Amidst Uncertainty
Pakistan enters the 2025 Champions Trophy with a team that blends experience and raw talent. While they remain a dangerous force, their bowling concerns and the absence of Saim Ayub make them a more vulnerable unit than in previous years.
However, with the likes of Rizwan leading from the front and Fakhar Zaman providing fireworks at the top, Pakistan can still challenge for the title. How they manage their bowling issues and ensure their key players step up under pressure will determine how far they can go in the competition.
FAQs
What are Pakistan’s strengths for the Champions Trophy 2025?
Mohammad Rizwan’s consistency and Babar Azam’s leadership are key strengths.
How did Pakistan perform recently in ODIs?
Pakistan won series against Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa but struggled in their recent tri-series.
What are Pakistan’s weaknesses for the 2025 Champions Trophy?
A fragile middle order and limited spin options are concerns.
Who are the key players to watch in Pakistan’s squad?
Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Afridi are crucial players.
Who are Pakistan’s group stage opponents?
Pakistan faces New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh in the group stage.
