With only 20 days left until the Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan remains the only team yet to announce its squad. All other participating teams have finalized their selections, but the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is facing delays due to uncertainty surrounding Saim Ayub’s injury.
Delay Caused by Saim Ayub’s Injury
According to a report by Cricket Pakistan, young opener Saim Ayub suffered an ankle fracture during the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town earlier this month. He, along with assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, traveled to London for treatment. The PCB is waiting for medical confirmation on Ayub’s recovery before making final squad decisions.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently addressed the situation, stating that the board is prioritizing Ayub’s long-term fitness over a rushed return. “We cannot put Saim Ayub’s career at risk for the Champions Trophy. His plaster will be removed soon, and he is undergoing rehabilitation,” Naqvi told reporters.
Read:Â Champions Trophy 2025: Tickets for Three Matches Sell Out Quickly
Pakistan’s Opening Pair in Doubt
Former cricketer Rashid Latif expressed concerns about Pakistan’s top-order stability. He highlighted that with Saim Ayub injured and Abdullah Shafique out of form, Pakistan faces uncertainty in the opening slot.
“I am worried about Ayub’s injury. If he is unavailable and Shafique continues struggling, Pakistan might face serious problems at the top,” Latif stated.
PCB’s Careful Approach
The PCB is deliberately taking time to assess all available options before making an official announcement. The selectors want to ensure they have a balanced and competitive squad for the tournament.
Despite the delay, fans are eagerly waiting for the official squad list. With the Champions Trophy marking Pakistan’s first ICC event at home since the 1996 World Cup, expectations are high.
Tournament Kickoff in Karachi
The Champions Trophy 2025 will start on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opening match at National Stadium, Karachi. The tournament will be co-hosted by Pakistan and Dubai, making it a historic event for cricket in the country.
While the squad announcement is pending, Pakistan’s cricketing future depends on crucial selection decisions in the coming days.
Follow us on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates
