Faheem Ashraf's selection questioned [Source: @TheRealPCB/X.com]
Finally, after days of waiting, the Pakistan selectors announced the squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. While all the other teams had already revealed their squad, Pakistan was the only one left and they announced the team in their unique style. The team is a great mixture of youth and experience and almost all the core members of the team were picked in the squad.
However, a couple of selection decisions were questioned as Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) came under the scrutiny. Some people believe that the squad was selected solely on the political basis, however, PCB refutes the claim and reckon that every player was picked in the team due to their past performances.
Faheem Ashraf's selection raises eyebrows
Out of all the players selected in the Champions Trophy team, the selection of Faheem Ashraf raised eyebrows as the all-rounder was not even in the race to be picked in the team.
He averages a mere 10.66 with the bat in the ODIs, and with the ball in hand, Ashraf averages 46.30 and these are not the numbers you want an all-rounder to have. However, PCB insist that Ashraf was considered a better option due to his recent performances in the Bangladesh Premier League and also the poor form of Aamer Jamal helped his cause.
Why no Haseebullah in the squad?
Mohammad Rizwan will lead the team and is the first choice opener for Pakistan. However, instead of going in with Haseebullah, who was there on the previous tour, Pakistan went ahead with Usman Khan as the backup keeper.
However, as per reports, PCB feels that in case of an injury to Rizwan, Usman will be a much more reliable option than Haseebullah.