Pakistan Champions Trophy 2025 Squad: Four Players who can be surprise inclusions in Team

Pakistan is yet to announce their team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The eight-team tournament is set to start from February 19 and Pakistan, being the hosts, will be hoping for a decent outing.

They are also the defending champions of the tournament, having won it last time in 2017. PCB is contemplating a date for the squad announcement, which is likely to happen by the end of the month.

Before the Champions Trophy, Pakistan will play a tri-nation series involving New Zealand and South Africa. A strong squad is expected to be named by the PCB selectors for the pivotal tournament.

Pakistan has been excellent in ODI format over the last 12 months, especially under new captain Mohammad Rizwan. They recently won the series in South Africa and will be hoping to continue their rich form in the upcoming tournament as well.

Amid the expected selections for the Champions Trophy, there can be a few surprise inclusions into the Pakistan team for the competition.

Shan Masood

With Saim Ayub out injured, Pakistan's Test captain Shan Masood is an option for Champions Trophy selection. The southpaw is known for his red ball credentials, but is a handy player at the top in limited overs cricket as well. A player such as Masood can be the calming presence in the batting for Pakistan, which will be beneficial at such a high-octane tournament.

Usama Mir

Usama Mir has shown his bowling guile in the 12 ODIs which he has played, getting 15 wickets in the process. The 29-year-old leg-spinner will be a very handy addition, especially in sub-continent conditions. Although Mir had a fallout with PCB in the past, his inclusion will bring an added quality to Pakistan's artillery.

Faisal Akram

Faisal Akram, a left-arm chinaman bowler, can be a surprise pick for Pakistan. The 21-year-old was the highest wicket-taker for them in the President's Cup with 13 wickets. Akram has already played 3 ODIs but Champions Trophy can be his biggest exposure to international cricket.

Imam-ul-Haq

Imam-ul-Haq is out of the Pakistan squad since World Cup 2023. But the southpaw may be handed an elusive comeback courtesy of Saim Ayub's injury. The stylish opener averages 57 in ODIs on home soil and that may entice the selectors for Imam's inclusion into the side for Champions Trophy.