Cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to commence on February 19, 2025. This highly anticipated ODI tournament will feature eight top cricketing nations, all competing for the prestigious title. The tournament opener will see host nation Pakistan take on New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi.
Adding to the excitement, Pakistan enters the competition as the defending champion of the Champions Trophy. Placed in Group A alongside India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, Pakistan faces a challenging road ahead. One of the most awaited matches of the tournament will be the high-voltage clash between Pakistan and India on February 23 in Dubai.
In this article, we will analyze the Pakistan cricket team squad and highlight Pakistan’s best batsman, bowler, and all-rounder who could play a pivotal role in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a strong squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, blending experienced players with emerging talents:
- Mohammad Rizwan (captain)
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir
- Faheem Ashraf
- Khushdil Shah
- Salman Ali Agha
- Usman Khan
- Abrar Ahmed
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
With a balanced team composition featuring explosive batsmen, lethal bowlers, and reliable all-rounders, Pakistan is well-equipped to defend its Champions Trophy title
Pakistan’s Best Batsman in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Babar Azam
When it comes to batting excellence, no player stands out more than Babar Azam. He is not only Pakistan’s best batsman but also one of the finest ODI cricketers globally.
Why Babar Azam Can Be Pakistan’s Best Batsman
- Proven Track Record: Recently, Babar Azam became the fastest player to score 6000 ODI runs, a record he shares with Hashim Amla.
- Consistent ODI Form: As of now, Babar has amassed 6,019 runs in 126 ODIs at an outstanding average of 55.73.
- Match-Winning Ability: He has a history of playing big innings in crucial matches, making him Pakistan’s most reliable batter.
If Babar Azam delivers top performances, Pakistan’s chances of winning the Champions Trophy increase significantly.
Pakistan’s Best Bowler in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Shaheen Shah Afridi
When it comes to Pakistan’s fast bowling attack, Shaheen Shah Afridi is undoubtedly the biggest threat to opposition teams. His ability to swing the ball both ways and trouble batsmen with sheer pace makes him a lethal ODI bowler.
Why Shaheen Afridi Can Be Pakistan’s Best Bowler
- Powerplay Wicket-Taking Ability: Shaheen is renowned for his ability to strike early, often dismantling the opposition’s top order.
- Big Tournament Experience: He has delivered match-winning spells in major ICC events, including the 2021 T20 World Cup and the 2019 ODI World Cup.
- Impressive ODI Stats: At just 24 years old, Shaheen has already taken 124 wickets in 61 ODIs.
His ability to take crucial wickets under pressure makes him a key player for Pakistan’s title defense.
Pakistan’s Best All-Rounder in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Salman Ali Agha
Among Pakistan’s squad, Salman Ali Agha emerges as the best all-rounder who can play a significant role in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He is a valuable asset since he can contribute with both the bat and the ball.
Why Salman Ali Agha Can Be Pakistan’s Best All-Rounder
- Reliable Middle-Order Batsman: Salman can stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed.
- Effective Off-Spin Bowler: His off-spin can provide crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs.
- Consistent Domestic Performance: With 3,117 runs and 89 wickets in 110 List-A matches, Salman has proven to be a dependable all-rounder.
Given his recent form, Salman Ali Agha can play a crucial role for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025.
Pakistan’s Fixtures in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan faces a challenging group stage with tough opponents. Here are their key matches:
- February 19, 2025: Pakistan vs New Zealand (Karachi)
- February 23, 2025: Pakistan vs India (Dubai)
- February 27, 2025: Pakistan vs Bangladesh
The Pakistan vs India match on February 23 is expected to be one of the biggest games of the tournament, attracting millions of viewers worldwide.
Can Pakistan Win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Pakistan has a strong squad with match-winners in all departments. Their success will depend on:
- Batting consistency, especially from Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
- Bowling firepower, led by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.
- All-round contributions from Salman Ali Agha and Faheem Ashraf.
If Pakistan performs to its full potential, they have a realistic chance of winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Final Thoughts
As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, Pakistan fans have high expectations from their team. Players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Salman Ali Agha will be key performers in Pakistan’s title defense.
The tournament promises to deliver thrilling cricket action, with high-stakes matches and intense rivalries. With a talented squad and a hunger to win, Pakistan will aim to create history once again.
Will Pakistan successfully defend their ICC Champions Trophy title in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
1. What is the date and location of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy?
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will start on February 19, 2025, with the first match between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. The tournament will take place across multiple venues, including Dubai, where Pakistan will face India on February 23, 2025.
2. Who is leading the Pakistan cricket team in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Mohammad Rizwan has been appointed as the captain of the Pakistan team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, leading a strong squad that includes Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Salman Ali Agha.
3. Who is Pakistan’s best batsman to watch in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Babar Azam is expected to be Pakistan’s best batsman in the tournament. He recently became the fastest player to score 6,000 ODI runs and has been a consistent match-winner for Pakistan in ODI cricket.
4. Can Pakistan win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Pakistan has a strong chance of winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to its balanced squad, featuring top-quality batsmen, fast bowlers, and all-rounders. Their success will depend on consistent batting performances, strong bowling from Shaheen Afridi, and crucial all-round contributions from Salman Ali Agha.
5. Where can I watch the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 live?
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be broadcast live on official sports channels and streaming platforms. Fans can check ICC’s official website and leading broadcasters like ESPN, Star Sports, and PTV Sports for live streaming details.