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Former Pakistan cricketer Ahmad Shahzad has raised concerns over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) squad selection for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE. The tournament holds significant importance for Pakistan, not only because they are co-hosting but also as an opportunity to reclaim their dominance in white-ball cricket.
Concerns over spin department
Shahzad took to social media to criticize the lack of specialist spinners in the squad, questioning the team’s strategy in spin-friendly conditions. He pointed out that with the tournament being played in Pakistan and the UAE, where pitches traditionally assist spinners, the decision to include only one genuine spinner could backfire.
“Only one genuine spinner in Champions Trophy squad and you are playing in Pakistan and UAE, are you serious?” Shahzad tweeted, referring to the selection of Abrar Ahmed as the lone specialist spinner, while part-time spin options like Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah are expected to support him.
Also READ: Pakistan announces ODI squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 and tri-series; no place for Saim Ayub
Uncertainty in the opening pair
Shahzad also pointed out the lack of clarity in Pakistan’s opening combination, especially with Fakhar Zaman making a comeback. He expressed concerns about the decision to introduce two new openers directly into a high-stakes tournament.
“2 new openers will be playing directly in Champions Trophy. Fakhar making a comeback and we still don’t know who will open with him,” Shahzad remarked, emphasizing the need for a settled top order ahead of the tournament.
The former opener further questioned the selection of players like Usman Khan, Faheem Ashraf, and Usman Shinwari, who have returned to the squad based on performances in Bangladesh’s T20 league rather than recent ODI experience for Pakistan.
Another concern highlighted by Shahzad was the inclusion of Saud Shakeel without a defined role in the playing XI. “And where are you willing to adjust Saud Shakeel? Another one came directly into the Champions Trophy squad,” he questioned, hinting at a lack of strategic planning in squad selection.
Only one genuine spinner in champions trophy squad and you are playing in Pakistan and UAE are you serious ?🤦🏻♂️
2 new openers will b playing directly in champions trophy fakhar making a comeback and we still don’t know who will open with him🤷🏽
Usman , Faheem & usman make thre… pic.twitter.com/zrCmNgufHr
— Ahmad Shahzad 🇵🇰 (@iamAhmadshahzad) January 31, 2025
