Pakistan's probable XI for upcoming clash against Bangladesh [Source: AP Photos]
Pakistan is set to face Bangladesh in their final fixture of the Champions Trophy 2025. The clash will be held on February 27 at the Rawalpindi cricket stadium starting from 2.30 PM IST.
Pakistan are already eliminated from the tournament, having lost both their fixtures against New Zealand and India.
On the other hand, Bangladesh’s hopes are also lost, having lost against New Zealand and India. Hence, the upcoming game is a dead rubber for both teams.
Pakistan To Drop Babar Azam
Why Pakistan Would Drop Babar Azam?
The biggest talking point is the potential exclusion of star batter Babar Azam. The former captain has struggled with form, scoring 87 runs in 2 games. Hence, the management may opt for a fresh approach.
Imam-ul-Haq Likely To Be Sidelned
Why Pakistan Would Drop Imam-ul-Haq?
Imam-ul-Haq is also expected to be dropped as he made only 10 runs in the last game, making way for Kamran Ghulam and Usman Khan to open the innings.
Saud Shakeel is likely to bat at No. 3, while Mohammad Rizwan will continue to provide stability at No. 4.
Salman Ali Agha is expected to retain his spot at No. 5, with Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah in the middle order.
The team does not have many options to replace the middle-order batters. Moreover, since Pakistan is already eliminated from the tournament, they might opt for fresh changes.
Shaheen Afridi Also Likely To Be Excluded
Why Pakistan Would Drop Shaheen Afridi?
Another significant change could be the exclusion of Shaheen Afridi. The left-arm pacer has failed to make an impact in the tournament taking just 2 wickets in 2 games.
This has led to speculation that Mohammad Hasnain might replace him. Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah are expected to lead the pace attack, while Abrar Ahmed remains the primary spinner. Faheem Ashraf could also feature in the XI, depending on the pitch conditions.
Pakistan's probable XI vs Bangladesh
Saud Shakeel, Usman Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK), Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed