Pakistan vice-captain Salman Ali Agha expressed his aim to win the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and lift the coveted silverware in his hometown Lahore.
In the latest episode of the PCB Podcast, Salman opened up about his excitement, while stating that the tournament holds immense significance not just for him, but for the entire nation.
“I am excited for the Champions Trophy—Pakistan hosting an ICC event is special,” said Salman. “As a Lahore native, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true. The Pakistan team has the potential to win.”
While the Pakistan-India clash remains the tournament’s most anticipated fixture, Salman made it clear that the ultimate goal is to bring the trophy home.
“The Pakistan-India match is the biggest, but winning the Champions Trophy is more important,” he added.
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“If we beat India but don’t win the tournament, that win holds no value. However, if we lose to India but lift the trophy, that’s a bigger achievement. Our goal is to perform well and win.”
Speaking about his role as vice-captain, Salman Ali Agha admitted that while the added responsibility brings pressure, it also gives him the freedom to express himself on the field.
“I am really enjoying cricket and the new role given to me. Being vice-captain comes with responsibility but also a sense of freedom,” he stated.
“The victories in Australia and South Africa gave me a lot of confidence, and I always prepare thoroughly a day before the match.”
For the unversed, the defending champions and hosts Pakistan will begin their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a game against New Zealand on February 19, followed by the much-awaited clash against arch-rivals India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.
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