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As the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaches, Pakistan are set to host New Zealand and South Africa in a thrilling ODI tri-series. The series will commence on February 8 with Pakistan facing New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The action continues at the same venue on February 10, as New Zealand takes on South Africa in a crucial encounter. The tournament then moves to Karachi, where Pakistan will go head-to-head against South Africa at the National Bank Stadium on February 12. The series will culminate with the grand final on February 14, also at the National Bank Stadium, determining the ultimate champion.
Lahore and Karachi: Battlegrounds for the Tri-Series
This highly anticipated four-match series, set to take place from February 8 to 14, provides a crucial platform for teams to fine-tune their strategies and acclimatize to the challenging cricketing conditions in Pakistan. As the tournament unfolds, players will have the opportunity to test their skills against top-level competition, making necessary tactical adjustments ahead of future international commitments.
The series will be staged across two of Pakistan’s most iconic cricketing venues—Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Bank Stadium in Karachi—both of which have undergone extensive redevelopment to enhance the playing experience. The first two matches will be hosted in Lahore, known for its electrifying cricket atmosphere and passionate crowd support. Following these encounters, the action will shift to Karachi, where the final league match and the much-anticipated final will take place.
With state-of-the-art facilities and world-class infrastructure, these venues will serve as the perfect stage to highlight Pakistan’s commitment to hosting top-tier international cricket.
Also READ: Pakistan’s Wasim Akram pick ideal batting positions for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan’s top-choice playing XI for the tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand
1. Babar Azam
Role: Opening batter
Impact: The backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup, Babar Azam is a consistent run-scorer and a reliable anchor in the middle order. His ability to stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed makes him indispensable.
Strengths: Elegant stroke play, excellent timing, and the ability to play both pace and spin with ease. He is also a strong leader and a calming presence in the team.
2. Fakhar Zaman
Role: Opening batter
Impact: Fakhar is a dynamic opener who can take the game away from the opposition in the powerplay. His aggressive approach sets the tone for the innings.
Strengths: Power-hitting, ability to play big innings, and a strong record in high-pressure matches. His left-handedness adds variety to the top order.
3. Kamran Ghulam
Role: Middle-order batsman
Impact: Kamran Ghulam is a technically sound and versatile batsman who can adapt to different situations. He is known for his ability to build partnerships and play long innings.
Strengths: Solid defense, ability to rotate strike, and a good range of shots. His experience in domestic cricket makes him a reliable option in the middle order.
4. Saud Shakeel
Role: Middle-order batter
Impact: Saud Shakeel is a technically sound batter who can anchor the innings and accelerate when required. He is particularly effective against spin.
Strengths: Solid technique, ability to play long innings, and composure under pressure. His left-handedness adds balance to the batting line-up.
5. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicket Keeper)
Role: Wicketkeeper-batter and captain
Impact: Rizwan is the heart of the team, providing stability in the middle order and exceptional glove work behind the stumps. His leadership skills and consistency make him a key player.
Strengths: Excellent temperament, ability to rotate strike, and a wide range of shots. His fitness and energy levels are also a major asset.
6. Salman Ali Agha
Role: All-rounder
Impact: Salman Ali Agha provides balance to the team with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. He is a handy off-spinner and a reliable middle-order batter.
Strengths: Versatility, ability to bowl tight lines, and a good striker of the ball in the middle overs.
7. Faheem Ashraf
Role: All-rounder
Impact: Faheem is a genuine all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball. His medium-pace bowling and power-hitting make him a valuable asset.
Strengths: Ability to bowl in the death overs, lower-order hitting, and athleticism in the field.
8. Shaheen Afridi
Role: Fast bowler
Impact: Shaheen Afridi is Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, known for his ability to swing the ball and take early wickets. He is also effective in the death overs.
Strengths: Lethal inswingers, pace, and accuracy. His height gives him an extra bounce advantage.
9. Haris Rauf
Role: Fast bowler
Impact: Haris Rauf is a strike bowler who can bowl at high speeds and break partnerships. His yorkers and slower balls make him a threat in the death overs.
Strengths: Raw pace, aggressive bowling, and the ability to bowl under pressure.
10. Naseem Shah
Role: Fast bowler
Impact: Naseem Shah is a young and talented fast bowler who can swing the ball at high speeds. He is particularly effective in the power play.
Strengths: Swing, accuracy, and the ability to bowl long spells. His energy and aggression are also key strengths.
11. Abrar Ahmed
Role: Spin bowler
Impact: Abrar Ahmed is a mystery spinner who can trouble batters with his variations. He is particularly effective in the middle overs.
Strengths: Unorthodox spin, ability to take wickets in clusters, and control over line and length.
