When will Pakistan announce the Champions Trophy squad?

With less than a month to go for the 2025 Champions Trophy, Pakistan is the only team yet to announce its squad. The tournament begins on February 19 in Karachi, with defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the opening match. In the last edition in 2017, Pakistan defeated their arch-rivals India in the final to claim the title.

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Pakistan will stage most of the tournament's matches as the primary host. However, matches involving India will take place in Dubai under the hybrid model, as India refused to travel to Pakistan due to the political tensions between the two countries.

Currently, Pakistan is playing the second Test match against the West Indies at the Multan Cricket Stadium. According to reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized the squad for the Champions Trophy. The announcement is expected after the conclusion of the ongoing Test match. This means the squad might be revealed within the first few days of February. 

It is also reported that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has approved the selected team. Pakistan has been in superb form in recent ODIs. They defeated the reigning World Champions, Australia, 2-1 in Australia, followed by a 2-1 series win against Zimbabwe in Zimbabwe. Most recently, they achieved a 3-0 clean sweep against South Africa in South Africa. 

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With this strong momentum in the 50-over format, Pakistani fans are hopeful their team will carry the same form into the Champions Trophy as they aim to defend their title. However, young opener Saim Ayub, one of the key contributors to Pakistan's recent success, suffered a horrific right ankle injury. 

His participation in the tournament remains uncertain. Reports suggest the PCB selectors may not rush his recovery. A recent viral video showed Mr. Naqvi confirming to reporters that Ayub is undergoing rehabilitation. 

However, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali recently questioned the PCB’s preparedness for the event. In a video on his YouTube channel, he said: “Is Pakistan scared to announce their squad? No, it isn't, just unsure what to do and what not. The biggest issue is Saim Ayub, whether he can return fit or not. It's still not clear.”

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If Ayub misses out, Pakistan might recall Fakhar Zaman as their first-choice opener. Imam-ul-Haq might also get a chance as a potential replacement. 

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