Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy Squad Delayed

The Pakistan cricket team is facing criticism for its delay in announcing its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with the International Cricket Council's deadline having already passed, amidst concerns over player availability and team composition.

The delay has been attributed to uncertainty over the availability of batter Saim Ayub, who is still recovering from an injury. This has sparked debate over the team's preparedness for the event, with former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali expressing concern over the team's middle-order, stating that it is "dodgy" and citing the lack of experience in playing against high-speed fast bowlers. Ali suggests that a spin all-rounder is needed to strengthen the middle-order.

Meanwhile, Pakistan all-rounder Khushdil Shah is in the running to join the national squad for the tri-nation series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, having impressed in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025 with 274 runs in eight matches, boasting a strike rate of 197.12 and an average of 91.33. The selection committee is also considering Test captain Shan Masood, Imam-ul-Haq, Haseebullah Khan, and others for the ODI format.

The Champions Trophy 2025 is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, with matches in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. The delay in announcing the squad has raised questions over the team's readiness for the tournament, with fans and experts eagerly awaiting the final team selection.

As the clock ticks down to the start of the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan's cricket board faces mounting pressure to announce its squad and put an end to the speculation surrounding the team's composition. With the tournament just around the corner, the team's preparation and strategy will be closely watched by fans and experts alike.