Islamabad, Feb 5:The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has found itself under intense scrutiny after unveiling its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on January 31.
The selection has sparked significant criticism, particularly regarding the inclusion of players such as Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah. Both have faced backlash due to their underwhelming performances in international cricket, with many questioning their spots in the team.
Furthermore, the squad’s structure has raised eyebrows, notably the choice to include just one specialist opener and a solitary frontline spinner, a decision that has left fans and analysts puzzled.
Prominent cricket journalist Saleem Khaliq recently reported that the selectors have been urged to reassess the squad to ensure it is better balanced and capable of performing at the highest level. However, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has distanced himself from direct involvement in the selection process, confirming that the final decision lies with the selection committee. Naqvi has also suggested that any necessary changes should be made if flaws in the squad are identified.
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There have been rumors of external influence affecting player selection, with former cricketers hinting at possible political pressure and external recommendations guiding the final picks. These speculations have reportedly reached senior PCB officials, further fueling the debate surrounding the squad’s composition.
Despite these concerns, the PCB and the selection committee maintain that the squad was chosen based on merit, with data-driven analysis playing a pivotal role in the decision-making process. As the February 11 deadline looms, the PCB must finalize its squad, with any changes after this date only being allowed in cases of injury, and subject to technical committee approval.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy journey begins on February 19 in Karachi against New Zealand, with only two warm-up games against South Africa and New Zealand to prepare. With growing pressure to reconsider the selection, it remains to be seen if the PCB will remain steadfast or make adjustments ahead of one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments.
