Tag: ICC Champions Trophy 2025

KARACHI: Pakistan’s fast bowler, Naseem Shah, on Monday shed light on the national team’s preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and the crucial match against South Africa in the ongoing tri-nation series.

Shah, while addressing the media ahead of the must-win encounter against South Africa at the rebuilt National Bank Stadium, admitted that the Men in Green did not perform according to the expectations in the series opener against New Zealand.

However, he expressed confidence in the bowling unit’s ability to make a comeback in the upcoming clash.

“Look, after just one match, you can’t think negatively as a fast bowler. In the last two series, our fast bowlers performed exceptionally well in Australia and South Africa,” said Shah.

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”Here, the conditions are not suitable for fast bowlers. The role of spinners is very important in these conditions,” the pacer remarked.

Speaking about his recent performances, Naseem Shah admitted that he had not been at his best in last few matches.

“To be honest, I am not performing the way I expect from myself,” he added.

While sharing his views on the much-anticipated match between Pakistan and India, Naseem Shah said that the team had not discussed it much yet.

Naseem Shah emphasised that Pakistan has the potential to bounce back despite the disappointing result in Lahore

“Our team has the potential to bounce back and play good cricket,” the fast bowler concluded.

It is pertinent to mention here that, New Zealand achieved a convincing victory against Pakistan by 78 runs in the first match of the tri-nation ODI series at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.

Batting first, Phillips scored a fiery unbeaten ton after Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell’s fifties to power New Zealand to 330 over the loss of six wickets.

Chasing 331, Pakistan got off to a promising start with the new opening pair of Fakhar and Babar Azam putting together a brisk 52-run stand.

Fakhar Zaman was the only silver lining for Pakistan as they crumbled in chase, and were bowled out for 252 in 47.5 overs at Gaddafi Stadium.

Pakistan squad for tri-nation series and ICC Champions Trophy 2025:

Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

READ: PCB provides update on Haris Rauf’s injury ahead of Champions Trophy

Star New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson is suffering from a hamstring injury and his participation in the upcoming tri-nation ODI series as well as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 remains uncertain.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) is awaiting the results of his scans for the hamstring injury he sustained while playing for the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 on February 5. He was unable to bowl the final ball of his spell and left the field due to the injury.

“Just a little hamstring issue, unfortunate. Tough night; wish I could’ve bowled the last ball,” said Ferguson after the match.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead stated on Friday that the side was waiting on the results of the pacer’s scans ahead of the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series against Pakistan.

“Lockie had a scan yesterday [Thursday] in the UAE. We’ve got the images here and [we are] waiting for our radiologist to give us a report on the extent of it,” the New Zealand coach said.

“Small hamstring injury, by the look of it, so we’re just waiting on a timeline of advice around that before we make a decision on whether Lockie travels here [Pakistan] or whether we do have to replace him for the Champions Trophy 2025,” he added.

New Zealand squad for Tri-nation ODI series

Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, Will O’Rourke, Jacob Duffy

READ: PM Shehbaz Sharif shares piece of advice for Shaheen Afridi ahead of Champions Trophy

Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has shared a special piece of advice for the ace pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The premier inaugurated the stadium with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and other officials beside him.

Speaking on the occasion, PM Shehbaz said that it was a happy day for everyone that the stadium’s reconstruction was completed with “such grandeur”.

Shehbaz Sharif praised the national cricket team for their recent performances and expressed hope that they would become champions of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

“We all are praying for you. We are all waiting for the moment when you will defeat India,” he stated.

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He also advised Shaheen Afridi to take inspiration from his father-in-law, the legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi. Moreover, he shared his high expectations for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

“Babar Azam and [Mohammad] Rizwan, we have lots of expectations from you,” he said. “[Shaheen] Afridi Sb, follow in the footsteps of your father-in-law and pile up wickets Insha Allah.”

Sharif also assured that the government would provide top-tier security arrangements for the matches, allowing cricket fans to enjoy world-class cricket.

The PM congratulated the nation on hosting a major international sports event in Pakistan after 29 years. He also thanked Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for providing facilities to the construction team through the Punjab government.

He appreciated Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman and federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi for supervising the stadium’s construction.

READ: South Africa add two key players to squad for tri-nation ODI series

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the national team’s official jersey for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 in a grand ceremony at the newly-renovated Gaddafi Stadium here on February 7.

Pakistan’s jersey for the upcoming mega event was unveiled in a star-studded opening ceremony. The kit was revealed by the Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the highly anticipated event during the glittering ceremony.

The PCB uploaded the Pakistan jersey on its social media handles, showcasing the new design ahead of the upcoming series.

“Wear with 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 and support your stars,” wrote PCB on X (formerly Twitter).

 

The PCB also released a minute-long promo to unveil Jersey, starring Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman alongside women cricketers Sadia Iqbal and Fatima Sana.

Earlier Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime minister of Pakistan inaugurated the newly rebuilt Gaddafi Stadium ahead of the much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Speaking on the occasion, PM Shehbaz said that it was a happy day for everyone that the stadium’s reconstruction was completed with “such grandeur”.

He further stated that he had faith in the Pakistan team to win the tournament.

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“We all are praying for you. We are all waiting for the moment when you will defeat India, Babar Azam and Rizwan, we have lots of expectations from you,” the premier said.

Gaddafi Stadium, now fully revamped, will be in the spotlight during the tri-nation ODI series featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, hosting matches on February 8 and 10.

The venue is also set to play a major role in the Champions Trophy, with at least four matches, including the second semi-final on March 5.

Additionally, if India does not qualify for the final, Gaddafi Stadium is likely to host the title clash on March 9.

It’s worth noting that the ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

Pakistan squad for tri-nation series, Champions Trophy 2025:

Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Usman Khan (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

READ: WATCH: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 official song ‘Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke’ released

LAHORE: Pakistan white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan has backed star batter Babar Azam as an opener for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, saying that ‘King Karlega’, a phrase originally coined by fast bowler Hasan Ali.

Pakistan will begin their campaign in the much-anticipated Champions Trophy against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19.

While talking to the media ahead of the tri-nation series, Mohammad Rizwan backed Babar Azam as an opener alongside Fakhar Zaman for the eight-team tournament by referencing Hasan Ali’s famous words.

“As Hasan Ali said, ‘King Karlega’-he will do it, Saim Ayub was exceptional, he performed well and his absence will be felt,” said Rizwan.

The white-ball captain reaffirmed the squad selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by stating that as of now there aren’t any changes needed.

“The squad of Champions Trophy is in front of everyone, as of now there are no planned changes to the team.”

He further said that the upcoming match against New Zealand will provide further clarity on the team’s combination and strategy.

Rizwan backed all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah by highlighting their batting performances over the past two years.

“Faheem has been averaging 46 in the last two years with the bat in List A cricket, Khushdil is in great form and there should be no doubts about his selection,” said Rizwan.

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For the unversed, Faheem last played for the Men in Green back in September 2023 while Khushdil’s last appearance for Pakistan in ODIs came in August 2022.

Rizwan also addressed the opening batter Fakhar Zaman’s recent health issues and labelled him a proven match-winner.

“Fakhar had no idea about his illness. It was only after medical tests that we identified the issue, he is a proven match-winner, and everyone knows his impact,” he explained.

Speaking about Gaddafi Stadium, Rizwan admitted that the venue felt new for the team, given the lack of recent matches there.

“Even for us, Gaddafi Stadium feels different now. We will assess the pitch conditions before making any decisions,” he remarked.

While shedding light on the team’s spin attack he downplayed injury concerns for spinners along with stressing that Abrar Ahmed would be supported by Salman Ali Agha and Khushdil Shah.

“Even if a spinner gets injured, they can still manage to play since their injuries are usually minor,” said the white-ball captain.

Pakistan squad for tri-nation series, Champions Trophy 2025:

Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Usman Khan (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

READ: Fakhar Zaman reveals Babar Azam’s batting position in Champions Trophy

Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has shared his thoughts on the batting position of Babar Azam in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The left-hand batter made a return to the Pakistan squad for the tri-nation series and the Champions Trophy after nursing an injury and illness.

National selector Asad Shafiq while expressing his thoughts at the time of the Pakistan team’s squad announcement, said that Fakhar Zaman’s opening partner could be either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel depending on the team combination, conditions and match strategy.

Now, Zaman who is known for his explosive batting, has shared his thoughts on the star batter’s promotion as an opener in the team ahead of the mega event.

He revealed his thoughts during a PCB podcast by saying that, for a player like Babar’s calibre batting order did not matter.

“For a player like Babar Azam, batting number doesn’t matter, he is such a player that his class doesn’t let you down,” said Zaman.

“The range Babar has in ODIs makes cricket very easy for you, I hope Babar will perform very well,” he said.

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For the unversed, the Men in Green have been placed in Group A of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 alongside India, New Zealand and Bangladesh.

Pakistan will begin their campaign with the tournament opener against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19.

They will then face India in the highly-anticipated match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.

Pakistan will play their third and final group match in Rawalpindi against Bangladesh on February 27.

However, the national side will compete in a tri-nation series involving New Zealand and South Africa before the tournament.

Pakistan squad for tri-nation series, Champions Trophy 2025:

Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Usman Khan (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

READ: Mohsin Naqvi hints at possible changes in Champions Trophy squad

LAHORE: Mohsin Naqvi, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has hinted at possible changes in the national team’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Pakistan announced their squad for the upcoming tri-nation series and the Champions Trophy on January 31. But the squad announcement was met with criticism from fans and former cricketers.

Naqvi, while speaking to journalists here on Friday, stated that the selection committee is actively reviewing the team.

However, he also clarified that he does not interfere in selection matters and the final authority lies with the selection committee, which will decide whether to make any adjustments to the squad.

“We have included Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf in the squad with good intentions,” Mohsin Naqvi said, addressing concerns over their selection. However, his remarks suggest that no player’s spot is guaranteed, and further discussions are ongoing.

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Earlier today, Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan defended the national team’s squad selected for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

“The team selected for the Champions Trophy consists of the best available players, and the key to good performance is mental fitness,” said Younis.

“Team selection is done based on performance, and once the squad is chosen, the players should be fully supported. Criticism and unnecessary changes only create pressure on the players.”

The former captain expressed faith that this squad has the ability to make it into the semi-finals of the mega-event.

“The players have the talent to make it to the top four teams of the Champions Trophy,” he added.

Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Mohammad Rizwan (wk)(c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Saud Shakeel, Naseem Shah, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Kamran Ghulam, Muhammad Hasnain, Usman Khan, Haris Rauf.

READ: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 official song ‘Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke’ released

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday released the Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 official song, Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke, by renowned singer Atif Aslam.

“With 12 days to go until the unmissable ICC Men’s Champions Trophy, the release of the song will build further excitement to the 15-match event taking place from 19 February to 9 March in Pakistan and the UAE,” the ICC said in a press release.

The official song for the event is produced by Abdullah Siddiqui, with lyrics penned by Adnan Dhool and Asfandyar Asad.

The music video is a visual celebration of the diverse culture of Pakistan from the streets to the markets to the stadium and represents the love and enjoyment of the game.

The thrilling two-week competition will see the world’s top eight teams put it all on the line in 15 intense matches across 19 days, with every match counting in the pursuit of the iconic white jackets.

Lead singer Atif Aslam expressed his overwhelming excitement about being part of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.

He shared that his love for cricket runs deep, highlighting his enthusiasm for the sport and the electrifying atmosphere that major tournaments bring.

“I am very fond of cricket and I always wanted to be a fast bowler. Having the passion and understanding of the game – I feel connected to the adrenaline of the crowd, their cheers and the feeling of being a fan,” said Atif.

“I used to wait for matches in particular the India versus Pakistan game which was always full of emotions and sentimental value. And that is why I am very excited to have been a part of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 official song [Jeeto Baazi Khel Ke].”

On the launch of the song, ICC Chief Commercial Officer, Anurag Dahiya said, “Excitement is building ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy and today we are delighted to launch the official event song.”

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“With 12 days to go until the start of the event, fans can expect a song that represents the Pakistan identity and a true celebration of the Champions Trophy. We encourage fans to get their tickets now and not miss out.”

Meanwhile, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Tournament Director and PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed said: “With the launch of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 official song, we mark another thrilling milestone on the road to this global spectacle.”

“Atif Aslam, a powerhouse of Pakistani music, has delivered blockbuster anthems for the PSL, and we have no doubt that this song will set the stage on fire.

“As excitement builds, we are confident that fans – especially in Pakistan – will rally behind all the teams, filling the stadiums with electrifying energy and passion for the game.”

READ: PCB chairman reviews final arrangements for Gaddafi Stadium’s grand opening

Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has defended the national team’s squad selected for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, set to be played from February 19 to March 9.

Pakistan announced their squad for the tri-nation series and the upcoming eight-team tournament on January 31.

Although critics and former cricketers have raised their concerns over the selection of some players in the squad, Younis Khan stated that these are the best available players in the country.

“The team selected for the Champions Trophy consists of the best available players, and the key to good performance is mental fitness,” said Younis.

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“Team selection is done based on performance, and once the squad is chosen, the players should be fully supported. Criticism and unnecessary changes only create pressure on the players.”

The former captain expressed faith that this squad has the ability to make it into the semi-finals of the mega-event.

“The players have the talent to make it to the top four teams of the Champions Trophy,” he added.

Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Mohammad Rizwan (wk)(c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Saud Shakeel, Naseem Shah, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Kamran Ghulam, Muhammad Hasnain, Usman Khan, Haris Rauf.

READ: PCB chairman reviews final arrangements for Gaddafi Stadium’s grand opening

Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has predicted the winner of the high-octane ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India.

The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on 19 February with host and defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand in the curtain-raiser in Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.

The eight-team tournament will consist of 15 matches over 19 days and will take place in Pakistan and Dubai.

The arch-rivals Pakistan and India have been placed in Group A alongside New Zealand and Bangladesh. The much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.

Shoaib Akhtar, during a media interaction in Dubai, predicted that Pakistan will defeat India in their group match in the Champions Trophy.

“I’m hopeful that Pakistan will defeat India on February 23. In fact, I believe that both Pakistan and India should also meet in the final of the tournament,” he predicted.

“If Pakistan defeats India and New Zealand in the Champions Trophy, the Green Shirts will have already won half the tournament.”

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He also shared his prediction for the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy.

“I believe Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan will reach the semi-finals of the 2025 Champions Trophy,” he stated.

“If Afghanistan’s team demonstrates maturity and their batsmen show patience, they could deliver surprising results.”

In Pakistan, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi will be the three venues to host tournament play. Each Pakistan venue will feature three group games apiece, with Lahore hosting the second semi-final.

Lahore will also host the final on 9 March, unless India qualify, in which case it will be played in Dubai.

Both the semi-finals and the final will have reserve days. The three group matches involving India, as well as the first semi-final, will be played in Dubai.

READ: ICC unveils nominees for Player of the Month awards for January 2025