 "Wasim Akram has slammed the PCB over squad selection for the Champions Trophy. Image: PCB/AFP")
Pakistan’s legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has expressed his concerns about the squad selected by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing ILT20 in Dubai, Akram questioned several key decisions, particularly the choice of only one specialist spinner and the inclusion of certain players.
The PCB’s squad announcement came with some notable changes, including the return of veteran opener Fakhar Zaman after an injury to Saim Ayub ruled him out. The team also saw the inclusion of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and batters Khushdil Shah and Saud Shakeel. Top-order player Abdullah Shafique has also missed out.
Wasim Akram expresses disappointment with Pakistan’s squad
However, Wasim Akram was particularly critical of the selectors’ decision to include just one spinner for the tournament, a stark contrast to India’s strategy of picking four spinners. The lone spinner in Pakistan’s squad is Abrar Ahmed, a 26-year-old who has impressed in his short ODI career, having taken 10 wickets in four matches.
Akram pointed out the discrepancy, stating, “We have picked only 1 proper spinner, while India increased their number from 3 to 4. But I’m sure Pakistan selectors considered everything to make the call.”
The 1992 World Cup hero also voiced disappointment over the inclusion of Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah. Ashraf, a pace-bowling all-rounder, has been struggling with form, particularly in recent months. Akram was blunt in his assessment, noting that Ashraf’s recent performances had been subpar.
“Faheem Ashraf has been selected in this squad but in the last few months his batting average is 9 while his bowling average is 100. Apart from this, Khushdil Shah’s performance has also not been good. Anyway, the team has been selected. I wish Pakistan all the best,” Akram remarked.
Despite his criticisms, Akram acknowledged the pressure the team would face, particularly since the tournament will be played on home soil. “There will be pressure on them at the homeground. I hope they reach the semifinals,” he added, offering his support for the squad as they prepare for the prestigious tournament.
Impact Shorts
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Pakistan’s squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.