Champions Trophy: Pakistan's strongest starting playing XI

Pakistan are the defending champions of the Champions Trophy and the primary hosts of the upcoming edition. Fans are hopeful that, with the advantage of home conditions, the Men in Green can defend their title. In the last edition in 2017, they defeated arch-rivals India in the final in England.

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This time, they will begin their campaign on 19 February against New Zealand at the National Stadium Karachi. Pakistan are placed in Group A alongside India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. They were the last team to announce their squad, but unfortunately, young star opener Saim Ayub missed out due to a right ankle fracture. 

Considering Saim’s recent red-hot form, fans are disappointed, but from the available players, Fakhar Zaman is expected to open the innings. In Saim’s absence, Babar Azam seems best suited to partner him at the top. Saud Shakeel is likely to take the number three spot.

Skipper Mohammad Rizwan, who will also take on wicketkeeping duties, could play a key role in handling spinners on spin-friendly tracks during the middle overs. Kamran Ghulam is expected to provide solid support in the middle order.

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Salman Agha and Faheem Ashraf will be crucial as all-rounders, contributing with both bat and ball. Pakistan’s pace attack will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, a trio capable of troubling opposition batters. 

Shaheen and Naseem’s ability to swing the ball, combined with Haris’s raw pace, will be key factors. However, how Rizwan utilises them in different phases of the game will be crucial. Abrar Ahmed will be the main attacking spinner in the middle overs. 

He has taken 10 wickets in his first four ODIs, but for additional support, Salman Agha will need to step up with his spin bowling. Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will play a tri-series at home featuring South Africa and New Zealand. This series will provide a clearer picture of the likely playing XI for the marquee event.

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Here is the Pakistan's strongest starting playing XI for the Champions Trophy

Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Salman Agha, Kamran Ghulam, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

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