Pakistan is the one staff that has not but introduced their squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February nineteenth.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has missed the deadline set by the International Cricket Council to announce its squad for the Champions Trophy. This sudden delay in disclosing the staff for such a big occasion has left many, together with former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali, feeling confused. He has expressed worries in regards to the board’s preparedness for the event.
“Pakistan kya darr gaya jo abhi tak team announce nahi ki? Nahi dara nahi hai. Samajh nahi aa rahi hai — karein to kya karein? (Is Pakistan scared to announce their squad? No, it isn’t, just unsure what to do and what not),” mentioned Basit in a video on his YouTube channel.
One purpose for Pakistan’s vital delay in announcing their squad is the uncertainty relating to the provision of batsman Saim Ayub.
“The biggest issue is Saim Ayub, whether he can return fit or not. It’s still not clear,” he mentioned.
Basit identified vital points with Pakistan’s middle-order, noting that many gamers could enter the event with none earlier expertise in an ICC occasion.
“I hope I am wrong, but Pakistan’s problem is their middle-order because they have to face 140kmph fast bowlers, barring against India who have spin all-rounders,” mentioned Basit. “Right now, Pakistan’s No. 5, 6 and 7 appear dodgy. That’s why I am in favour of Saud Shakeel. People are talking about Khushdil Shah. But do you want a T20 player in the Champions Trophy squad?”
“Tayyab Tahir, Saud, and Kamran Ghulam haven’t played ICC events. Similarly, the spinners Sufiyan (Muqeem) and Abrar (Ahmed) haven’t played,” mentioned the previous batter.
“That’s why at this time Shadab Khan is needed as a spin all-rounder. If Saim is fit, then Saim and Fakhar Zaman is the best opening combination. If Saim doesn’t make it, then Shan Masood. Who’s left after that? Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. So your batting will depend on these four and bowling will depend on pacers,” he concluded.
Pakistan is in Group A with India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. They will kick off their marketing campaign towards New Zealand on February 19, and the much-anticipated match between India and Pakistan is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
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