Why were key players dropped? The selection of Faheem Ashraf in Champions Trophy squad
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 and the upcoming tri-nation series with New Zealand and South Africa.
However, the squad announcement has surprised many fans, especially with the exclusion of key players and the inclusion of Faheem Ashraf.
Four changes have been made from the 15-member squad that last played an ODI series in South Africa. Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim have been replaced by Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel. The team will be led by Mohammad Rizwan, with Salman Ali Agha as vice-captain.
Among the selected players, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman were also part of the squad that won the Champions Trophy in 2017.
Sources revealed that Imam-ul-Haq was dropped due to fitness concerns and disciplinary issues. Meanwhile, Test captain Shan Masood was excluded for not bowling in a recent match, while Aamer Jamal’s inconsistency led to Faheem’s inclusion.
Sajid Khan was left out due to inexperience in white-ball cricket, while Saud Shakeel made the squad based on his strong performances in Asian conditions.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has criticized the selection committee, questioning the recent performances of players like Faheem and Khushdil. The team selection remains a hot topic among cricket fans and experts as Pakistan prepares for the prestigious tournament.
