Pakistan remains the only team yet to announce its squad for the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025, sparking intense speculation among cricket fans and analysts.
With the tournament set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan, cricket enthusiasts are eager to predict the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) selection for the mega event.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks the return of this prestigious tournament after an eight-year break. As the host nation and defending champions, Pakistan carries the weight of expectations to not only deliver strong performances but also retain their title. The event will feature the top eight teams in world cricket, split into two groups of four for the group stage.
Pakistan has been placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B features Afghanistan, England, Australia, and South Africa. Each team will play three group-stage matches, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. The opening match of the tournament will witness the host nation taking on New Zealand in Karachi on February 19.
While the other seven participating teams have already announced their squads, the delay in naming Pakistan’s lineup has led to widespread speculation. Fans expect the PCB to rely on experienced players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman, complemented by emerging stars like Abdullah Shafique, Ihsanullah, and Aamer Jamal. However, the PCB’s final decision remains under wraps, leaving room for surprises.
Confirmed Squads for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Group A:
• India: Led by Rohit Sharma, with key players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja.
• Bangladesh: Captained by Nazmul Hossain Shanto, featuring experienced players like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mustafizur Rahman.
• New Zealand: Under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, with Kane Williamson and Devon Conway as pivotal members.
Group B:
• Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi leads a strong squad with stars like Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi.
• England: Jos Buttler heads a power-packed team including Jofra Archer, Joe Root, and Harry Brook.
• Australia: Pat Cummins captains a side featuring Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Mitchell Starc.
• South Africa: Temba Bavuma leads a balanced squad with Kagiso Rabada and Aiden Markram in key roles.
As anticipation builds, all eyes are on Pakistan to unveil their squad and finalize preparations to defend their title on home soil. Fans are hopeful for a combination of seasoned performers and new talent to take on the world’s best teams in this historic tournament.