ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan squad under fire as selectors ordered to fix blunders

The Pakistan selection committee announced its 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai, through a press release on January 31. However, the selection has sparked controversy, with many urging the selectors to review and reconsider the squad.

Defending champions Pakistan will aim for a strong performance in the Champions Trophy. Pakistan’s squad has a mix of youth and experience, with some fresh faces and a few players returning after a gap. However, several surprise omissions have raised eyebrows, drawing criticism from former players.

Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah's Selection Sparks Strong Criticism

The inclusion of all-rounders Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah drew criticism. Both players last represented Pakistan in 2023 and were not even in the scheme of things for recent series. Ashraf, who has 26 wickets and 224 runs in 34 ODIs, played his last ODI for the Pakistan team during the 2023 Asia Cup.

Meanwhile, the decision to select only one specialist spinner, Abrar Ahmed, surprised many given the spin-friendly conditions expected during the upcoming tournament. Abrar, a leg-spinner with only four ODIs under his belt, will lead the spin attack despite his limited experience in international cricket.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi Leaves Final Champions Trophy Squad Decision to Selectors

According to a report by Cricket Pakistan, the PCB selection committee has been advised to reassess the squad for the event. Selectors were asked to address any possible mistakes or omissions. However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that the final decision rests with the selectors.

"Sources suggest that recently, the selection committee was asked to review the announced squad. If there were any mistakes or shortcomings, they should be corrected. However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has left the final decision to the selectors, as he does not want to interfere in their work," Cricket Pakistan reported.

Former Cricketers Suggest Political Pressure Influenced Pakistan Squad Selections

Some former cricketers have suggested that political pressure and recommendations influenced the inclusion of certain players in the squad. These concerns were reportedly raised with senior board officials. However, the selection committee has firmly stated that players were selected based on merit.

The ICC has set a deadline of February 11 for any squad changes, which can be made without providing reasons. After that, changes will only be allowed in case of injury, subject to approval from the technical committee.

"According to sources, data was given great importance in the selection, but balance was not considered. However, the selectors themselves realized that the squad was not balanced, which is why, despite media presence in the stadium, the squad was announced via a press release," the report added.

Mohammad Rizwan will captain Pakistan in a tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand ahead of the Champions Trophy. Pakistan will aim to continue their strong performances in this format, having won three consecutive away series in Zimbabwe, Australia, and South Africa.

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