Pakistan Squad- (Source:@FaridKhan/X.com)
On Saturday, January 18, India announced their 15-member list for Champions Trophy 2025. The Men in Blue became the seventh team to reveal their squad for the prestigious event.
January 12 was the last date set by the ICC to submit the squads, but the BCCI had asked for an extension to sort out a few fitness concerns, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. In the latest events, both Bumrah and Shami are a part of the squad, but India have made a few surprising moves as Mohammed Siraj has been left out.
India Announce Champions Trophy
Now with India announcing their squad for Champions Trophy 2025, only Pakistan are left to reveal their squad. It is quite bizarre that the hosts are the ones left to announce their squad.
Notably, Champions Trophy 2025 starts on February 19, and only a month is left for the prestigious event this article will shed light on why Pakistan haven't made their squad public.
Similar to India, the PCB and Mohammad Rizwan are sweating hard over players' fitness, particularly Saim Ayub, who is out with an injury. Notably, during Pakistan's tour to South Africa, Ayub had twisted his ankle while chasing a delivery.
Why Are Pakistan Not Announcing Their Squad?
It led to him leaving the ground on a stretcher. Further, Ayub was spotted on crutches, and the PCB had sent him to London for recovery. Fortunately, the southpaw didn't undergo surgery and is currently facing a race against time to be fit for the fifty-over tournament.
Thus, Ayub's injury update is one of the reasons why Pakistan are delaying their squad announcement. Currently, there are reports that January 19 is the last date to announce the Champions Trophy 2025, but noting that has been finalised by the ICC.
Thus, it is to be seen whether PCB would make a India-like move and include Ayub in the squad despite subject to fitness.