Which players should be part of Pakistan's 15-member squad in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

[mominsaigol]

I don't know if Tayyab is a better batsman than Saud. He has just about the ugliest technique in the Pakistan side. I think only Usman Khan compares in-terms of ugliness. Whereas, Saud is much more technically sound and in general a gifted strokemaker. That said, Tayyab Tahir has not done too badly for himself so far. And there is no reason why they can't both be in the squad. But I doubt that will be the case.

Sorry, typo. Omg i hate samsung anyway. I meant tayyab is a better batsmen then usman khan and saud could have replaced him.

No need to replace tayyab who's done well despite having an ugly technique in odi.

No reason for usman khan to be in the squad over saud.

Furthermore Hasebullah isn't needed. He's played 1 game in which he scored a duck and pakistan doesn't need a backup keeper. Worst case scenario put him in reserves if rizwan gets injured but rizwan won't get injured.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Shan is a no brainer in ODIs. Should be given a long run.

I dont know what you are trying to say here...

Shan is a no brainer in ODIs. Should be given a long run.

Should be given long run???? WHYYYY

WE DONT NEED SHAN

 

[Farabi]

I dont know what you are trying to say here...

Should be given long run???? WHYYYY

WE DONT NEED SHAN

Sir, other options are worse and champions trophy is upon us.
Other options are experimental, and if we want to go down that route, then why not Haris or Hassan Nawaz.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Sir, other options are worse and champions trophy is upon us.
Other options are experimental, and if we want to go down that route, then why not Haris or Hassan Nawaz.

no need to do shan experiment as well... Fakhar and Imam should be back and I think they will be back.. babar is there so he should just be opener if we needed 1..

 

[Aqib_mustafa]

Plz aqib if you want to retain ct sajid khan is must he will get you wickets in middle and score handy runs down the order can someone plz send this to aqib to select sajid an at any cost plz discuss guys.

 

[mominsaigol]

Plz aqib if you want to retain ct sajid khan is must he will get you wickets in middle and score handy runs down the order can someone plz send this to aqib to select sajid an at any cost plz discuss guys.

Not a bad option but he won't be selected

 

[Aqib_mustafa]

Not a bad option but he won't be selected

Bro i am really on the edge here someone needs to send this to aqib sajid khan is in great form will get you wickets any pitch you play on.

 

[Farabi]

Plz aqib if you want to retain ct sajid khan is must he will get you wickets in middle and score handy runs down the order can someone plz send this to aqib to select sajid an at any cost plz discuss guys.

This thread will likely be filled with arguments and lengthy monologues about why Sajid Khan shouldn't be selected. Many will emphasize the rise of wrist spinners, claiming their ability to extract turn on any surface makes them indispensable.

The truth, however, is that Sajid Khan is an obvious choice for this team and should be fast-tracked without hesitation. He brings an excellent attitude, aggression, and control to the game, along with valuable contributions with the bat. A true fighter, he embodies the spirit of a warrior. At this point, I'd choose him over Sufiyan Muqeem without a second thought.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

When a player is hot on form and hot on confidence ( all be it built up on fake rigged pitches) then it is a good time to try him in other formats.

In an ideal world Pakistan should rest the 5-6 players that are automatic picks for CT and play the rest in tri series so people can show what they are capable of.

 

[Major]

yes pick a guy who has played more list A games and taken less wickets.

Nowadays everyone thinks they are a cricket expert.

 

[Aqib_mustafa]

yes pick a guy who has played more list A games and taken less wickets.

Nowadays everyone thinks they are a cricket expert.

So parchi system will continue in pakistan only pak can keep sajid khan out of ct he is a real gem but injustice will sadly continue.

 

[Major]

So parchi system will continue in pakistan only pak can keep sajid khan out of ct he is a real gem but injustice will sadly continue.

do you even know what parchi is?
Do you even know what injustice is?

again, a guy who has taken less wickets in the number of games played in List A, how will he perform at international?

Im just psting a basic fact, i didnt even bother talking about how he doesnt really spin the ball and relies on pitches to assist him.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

do you even know what parchi is?
Do you even know what injustice is?

again, a guy who has taken less wickets in the number of games played in List A, how will he perform at international?

Im just psting a basic fact, i didnt even bother talking about how he doesnt really spin the ball and relies on pitches to assist him.

Bro confidence is a big thing in these tournaments. I agree with all you have said about Sajid but when a player is oozing confidence he can have a purple patch.

No harm in giving him a few games in tri series.

 

[Major]

Bro confidence is a big thing in these tournaments. I agree with all you have said about Sajid but when a player is oozing confidence he can have a purple patch.

No harm in giving him a few games in tri series.

When we use such reasoning we are than thinking from emotions and not logically.

We need to play the best player available for that format and not give in to selecting guys cause they are having a good run (due to some other reasons).

Imad Wasim had a good run in the PSL, won IU 4 games on the trot, same reasoning was used back than, that this guys confidence is high, he is having a purple patch lets take him to the World T20. What ended up happening was Imad bottled an easy win against India.

List A cricket is domestic cricket where you play against weaker sides compared to International sides. So if a guy cant take wickets in List A how will he take wickets of international players?

He hasnt proved himself, infact he is yet to prove himself in test cricket where the conditions do not favor spinners.

Guy is not as good as people think he is. Karachi wicket is a normal spin wicket, and during a domestic game, Sajid struggled there because it wasnt modified as rank turner.

Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar have done nothing wrong to be dropped from the odi squad. Even if one of them sucks, the guy next in list in ODIs is Faisal Akram.

Sajid Khan is no where in the pecking order for limited overs cricket.

You pick him, this will be the Imad Wasim debacle at the World T20 2024 all over again.

 

[kingusama92]

We have to be honest, there's no injustice if he isn't selected.

His List A track record is there for everyone to see. Yes, you can select him based on form/momentum but I'm not sure I would bring him into a major tournament. Maybe give him a few series after the tournament to see how he goes but for now the guys in the ODI squad should be getting their chance.

Lyon is Australia's top off-spinner but they keep him far away from the ODI team. Why? Because he sucks in List A cricket and guess what he was rubbish in ODIs too when they tried him out.

Each format is different.

Just look at Babar, he becomes a proper run scorer in ODIs but seems to be all over the place in Test cricket.

 

[Bhaijaan]

He’s high on confidence and sometimes some players are just in hot form. I would have found a way to pick him.

 

[mumtaz]

From Pakistan's last squad, I think we are looking for replacements for the following:

Saim (most likely)
Shafique
Usman Khan ?

Fakhar would obviously come in for Shafique but replacing Saim is not straightforward because he's also the 6th bowler, so you need a batsman who can give you at least 5 overs reliably. Khushdil is one who bowls regularly or we can go to Shadab. If we go down the all-rounder (pseudo) route, then we also need an opener to partner Fakhar at the top and that's where Shan or Imam will come in place of Usman.

Ideally Saim gets fit and we make just one change to the squad (Fakhar for Shafique).

 

[hassan918]

From Pakistan's last squad, I think we are looking for replacements for the following:

Saim (most likely)
Shafique
Usman Khan ?

Fakhar would obviously come in for Shafique but replacing Saim is not straightforward because he's also the 6th bowler, so you need a batsman who can give you at least 5 overs reliably. Khushdil is one who bowls regularly or we can go to Shadab. If we go down the all-rounder (pseudo) route, then we also need an opener to partner Fakhar at the top and that's where Shan or Imam will come in place of Usman.

Ideally Saim gets fit and we make just one change to the squad (Fakhar for Shafique).

Reports are coming that Fakhar and Babar will open the batting for Pakistan so I don't see a place for Imam or Shan in the playing XI. Khushdil is likely to be part of the team as he been in good form in the BPL.

 

[khyberlion]

do you even know what parchi is?
Do you even know what injustice is?

again, a guy who has taken less wickets in the number of games played in List A, how will he perform at international?

Im just psting a basic fact, i didnt even bother talking about how he doesnt really spin the ball and relies on pitches to assist him.

Agha will outbowl Sajid in odis. People think he will get custom made pitches like the ones in test. Sajid doesn't even get picked for Peshawar in list A.

 

[Major]

Agha will outbowl Sajid in odis. People think he will get custom made pitches like the ones in test. Sajid doesn't even get picked for Peshawar in list A.

exactly.

Its basic common sense.

 

[khyberlion]

exactly.

Its basic common sense.

Unfortunately common sense doesn't apply to most of our fans. Sajid was recently outbowled in tests by Salman in Australia. Sajid also looked toothless when he wasn't given a custom made pitch on the QEA Final and was the main reason why Peshawar lost the final.

 

[Major]

Unfortunately common sense doesn't apply to most of our fans. Sajid was recently outbowled in tests by Salman in Australia. Sajid also looked toothless when he wasn't given a custom made pitch on the QEA Final and was the main reason why Peshawar lost the final.

Like i enjoy what he is doing with the custom made wickets. No hard feelings against him. For me he is just like Rehman and Zulfi Babar. Always a treat to watch an accurate spinner take wickets on such tracks

But some of the fans have gone abit over the top when they say pick this guy for limited overs

 

[khyberlion]

Like i enjoy what he is doing with the custom made wickets. No hard feelings against him. For me he is just like Rehman and Zulfi Babar. Always a treat to watch an accurate spinner take wickets on such tracks

But some of the fans have gone abit over the top when they say pick this guy for limited overs

Exactly. I am happy what he's doing and helping us win but he will be brutally exposed in odi cricket. This what happens when people don't know anything about the game.

 

[ExpressPacer]

Like i enjoy what he is doing with the custom made wickets. No hard feelings against him. For me he is just like Rehman and Zulfi Babar. Always a treat to watch an accurate spinner take wickets on such tracks

But some of the fans have gone abit over the top when they say pick this guy for limited overs

Real king was Ajmal. Could bowl anywhere and was amazing in every format.

 

[Farabi]

Like i enjoy what he is doing with the custom made wickets. No hard feelings against him. For me he is just like Rehman and Zulfi Babar. Always a treat to watch an accurate spinner take wickets on such tracks

But some of the fans have gone abit over the top when they say pick this guy for limited overs

Unfortunately common sense doesn't apply to most of our fans. Sajid was recently outbowled in tests by Salman in Australia. Sajid also looked toothless when he wasn't given a custom made pitch on the QEA Final and was the main reason why Peshawar lost the final.

Let’s not go to extremes by suggesting that only wrist spinners excel in white ball or that teams must rely on mystery spinners or bowlers who turn the ball both ways.

Players like Mitchell Santner, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Nabi, and Keshav Maharaj are prime examples of off-spinners and left-arm orthodox spinners who are consistent members of their teams and are ranked among the top 20 bowlers in the ICC rankings.

Now, some might argue that their batting contributions play a significant role in their inclusion. However, if we look at Sajid Khan's List A batting stats, he averages 29 with a strike rate of 90, which is comparable to Santner, Jadeja, and Nabi.

As for Maharaj, his List A and ODI batting average is 16, which is the same as Nauman Ali’s. This raises the question—

why can’t Sajid Khan or Nauman Ali fulfill a similar role for our team? Please don’t get personal, provide technical reason.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Fakhar and Imam should open and if imam is not here, babar should open.
Kamran, said, tayyab, khusdil (based on his current form) Salman, shaheen, Naseem, Abrar, Sufiyan, Rizwan

 

[Marooned]

When we use such reasoning we are than thinking from emotions and not logically.

We need to play the best player available for that format and not give in to selecting guys cause they are having a good run (due to some other reasons).

Imad Wasim had a good run in the PSL, won IU 4 games on the trot, same reasoning was used back than, that this guys confidence is high, he is having a purple patch lets take him to the World T20. What ended up happening was Imad bottled an easy win against India.

List A cricket is domestic cricket where you play against weaker sides compared to International sides. So if a guy cant take wickets in List A how will he take wickets of international players?

He hasnt proved himself, infact he is yet to prove himself in test cricket where the conditions do not favor spinners.

Guy is not as good as people think he is. Karachi wicket is a normal spin wicket, and during a domestic game, Sajid struggled there because it wasnt modified as rank turner.

Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar have done nothing wrong to be dropped from the odi squad. Even if one of them sucks, the guy next in list in ODIs is Faisal Akram.

Sajid Khan is no where in the pecking order for limited overs cricket.

You pick him, this will be the Imad Wasim debacle at the World T20 2024 all over again.

Absolutely spot on all your comments on sajid.

Glad I found atleast one person who thinks same way. Saying he "deserves" his white ball spot to " ge can take wickets on any surface" is next level madness.

 

[Farabi]

Bro confidence is a big thing in these tournaments. I agree with all you have said about Sajid but when a player is oozing confidence he can have a purple patch.

No harm in giving him a few games in tri series.

Absolutely spot on all your comments on sajid.

Glad I found atleast one person who thinks same way. Saying he "deserves" his white ball spot to " ge can take wickets on any surface" is next level madness.

True. I don’t agree with the extremes. But why can’t he be Pakistan’s Mohammad Nabi. Offer good control and offer something with the bat at no7/8.

 

[Farabi]

When we use such reasoning we are than thinking from emotions and not logically.

We need to play the best player available for that format and not give in to selecting guys cause they are having a good run (due to some other reasons).

Imad Wasim had a good run in the PSL, won IU 4 games on the trot, same reasoning was used back than, that this guys confidence is high, he is having a purple patch lets take him to the World T20. What ended up happening was Imad bottled an easy win against India.

List A cricket is domestic cricket where you play against weaker sides compared to International sides. So if a guy cant take wickets in List A how will he take wickets of international players?

He hasnt proved himself, infact he is yet to prove himself in test cricket where the conditions do not favor spinners.

Guy is not as good as people think he is. Karachi wicket is a normal spin wicket, and during a domestic game, Sajid struggled there because it wasnt modified as rank turner.

Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar have done nothing wrong to be dropped from the odi squad. Even if one of them sucks, the guy next in list in ODIs is Faisal Akram.

Sajid Khan is no where in the pecking order for limited overs cricket.

You pick him, this will be the Imad Wasim debacle at the World T20 2024 all over again.

He only played one game in the Champions Cup, the final, and delivered a stunning performance with figures of 2/24 in 10 overs, which sealed the victory for the team—yet this achievement is conveniently left out?

Sufiyan M and Abrar Ahmed are specialist spinners, and one of them makes the team.

Sajid Khan, on the other hand, is competing for a bowling all-rounder spot, acting as a replacement for players like Nawaz and Imad. He offers a lot more with the bat.

 

[Farabi]

Mehidy Hasan Miraj has been a standout in ODI cricket for years, consistently ranking among the top bowlers. His classical finger spin, with strengths in accuracy, flight, loop, and drift, has made him a reliable force for his team. He’s also not a mystery bowler or reliant on the doosra. His batting is also comparable to Sajid’s if you look at List A record.

 

[Major]

any idea when they announcing the squad?

 

[Nikhil_cric]

Mehidy Hasan Miraj has been a standout in ODI cricket for years, consistently ranking among the top bowlers. His classical finger spin, with strengths in accuracy, flight, loop, and drift, has made him a reliable force for his team. He’s also not a mystery bowler or reliant on the doosra. His batting is also comparable to Sajid’s if you look at List A record.

Mehidy plays majority of his matches in Bangladesh where they have big turning wickets even for ODIs.

Averages 25 in Bangladesh and 44 outside of Bangladesh where the wickets dont aid turn.

 

[Devadwal]

Mehidy plays majority of his matches in Bangladesh where they have big turning wickets even for ODIs.

Averages 25 in Bangladesh and 44 outside of Bangladesh where the wickets dont aid turn.

But mehndy is handy lower order batsman so he is good option for Bangladesh as an packege

 

[Farabi]

Mehidy plays majority of his matches in Bangladesh where they have big turning wickets even for ODIs.

Averages 25 in Bangladesh and 44 outside of Bangladesh where the wickets dont aid turn.

But mehndy is handy lower order batsman so he is good option for Bangladesh as an packege

Wicket-taking spinners are usually wrist or mystery spinners, but finger spinners (left-arm orthodox or off-spin) still have a role in ODIs if they add value with the bat.

While some are batting all-rounders (Maxwell, G Phillips), others are bowling all-rounders (Maharaj, Mehidy, Santner, Jadeja, Nabi), offering control with the ball and useful batting contributions. You are looking at economy rate here, more than average.

Some people are incorrectly comparing these two roles.

 

[Marooned]

True. I don’t agree with the extremes. But why can’t he be Pakistan’s Mohammad Nabi. Offer good control and offer something with the bat at no7/8.

Mohamad Nabi is one of the truest all rounders of his generation. Genuine batsman and genuine bowler. I don't see a parallel here.

I don't see Sajid as an all rounder. His primary skill is clearly bowling where he averages 37 with ball in list A. Is that an acceptable output? And we are only talking about domestics.

That batting avg of 27 doesn't mean much when it's only 500 runs.

Naseem Shah averages 42 with bat in odis. Is he an all rounder too?

So in short: I see Sajid Khan as a bowler and he has no claim to a spot as a white ball bowler.

 

[m.shah]

1.Fakhar
2.Babar
3.Saud
4.KG
5.Rizwan
6.Khushdil
7.Agha
8. Shaheen
9. Naseem
10.Haris
11. Abrar
12. Sufiyan
13. Aqif Javid
14. Irfan Khan
15. Hasnain
This should be squad for CT25

 

[mumtaz]

Reports are coming that Fakhar and Babar will open the batting for Pakistan so I don't see a place for Imam or Shan in the playing XI. Khushdil is likely to be part of the team as he been in good form in the BPL.

If that's the case, then I guess Saud will make the squad and bat at 5 with KG moving up to 3. Agha, Saud and KG to make up 10 overs.

 

[hassan918]

If that's the case, then I guess Saud will make the squad and bat at 5 with KG moving up to 3. Agha, Saud and KG to make up 10 overs.

It is very much possible but Khushdil Shah is also in contention and if he's in the playing XI, he can bowl a few overs as well.

 

[Farabi]

Mohamad Nabi is one of the truest all rounders of his generation. Genuine batsman and genuine bowler. I don't see a parallel here.

I don't see Sajid as an all rounder. His primary skill is clearly bowling where he averages 37 with ball in list A. Is that an acceptable output? And we are only talking about domestics.

That batting avg of 27 doesn't mean much when it's only 500 runs.

Naseem Shah averages 42 with bat in odis. Is he an all rounder too?

So in short: I see Sajid Khan as a bowler and he has no claim to a spot as a white ball bowler.

It’s interesting—you’re using the same List A sample size for bowling to make your point but won’t accept it for batting. You can’t have it both ways; the sample size is either too small for both or it isn’t.

Sajid Khan’s record is solid enough to warrant a chance as an all-rounder. He’s a much better bowler than Nabi and has a comparable List A batting record.

 

[Marooned]

It’s interesting—you’re using the same List A sample size for bowling to make your point but won’t accept it for batting. You can’t have it both ways; the sample size is either too small for both or it isn’t.

Sajid Khan’s record is solid enough to warrant a chance as an all-rounder. He’s a much better bowler than Nabi and has a comparable List A batting record.

More than willing to accept it for batting too even then it's hardly anything to boast about. 37 with ball 27 with bat and that's domestics.

So just to be clear you are advocating for Sajid based on his batting primarily. Is that right?

Hypothetically take that 27 list A average away you won't advocate for him right? Do answer this because I'm trying to understand the thought process here.

In what world is he a "much better bowler" than Nabi? Why are we mixing formats here?

I don't even want to compare their batting. That's laughable imo.

Nabi is a proper batsman. Sajid khan is Yasir Shah level.

If you are just going by stats we have better allrounders already in our team:

Kamran Ghulam.

List A Batting avg: 42
Lis A Bowl avg : 27 (69 wickets)

How does that sound?

Agha: 38 bat. 33 ball

So what's so special about Sajid khan's inverted all rounder stats?

If Sajid has to come into the team it has to be on the strength of his bowling and I don't see a case for it in white ball.

 

[TeymurBlake]

From the sounds of it, Saim will likely miss the tournament.

The talk online seems like it’s between Imam-ul-Haq or Shan Masood.

Fakhar will likely return which is the right decision.

I know I’m in the minority but I would go with Shan Masood. But I like the idea of going with Babar & Fakhar while bringing in Aamer Jamal.

1. Fakhar Zaman
2. Babar Azam
3. Saud Shakeel
4. Kamran Ghulam
5. Mohammad Rizwan (C + WK)
6. Agha Ali Salman
7. Aamer Jamal
8. Naseem Shah
9. Shaheen Shah Afridi
10. Abrar Ahmed
11. Haris Rauf

12. Tayyab Tahir
13. Sajid Khan
14. Rohail Nazir
15. Mohammad Hasnain/another pacer

Now I know my line-up is unlikely but this should be in consideration as you strengthen the batters who have the ability to play spin well in Saud & Ghulam.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

From the sounds of it, Saim will likely miss the tournament.

The talk online seems like it’s between Imam-ul-Haq or Shan Masood.

Fakhar will likely return which is the right decision.

I know I’m in the minority but I would go with Shan Masood. But I like the idea of going with Babar & Fakhar while bringing in Aamer Jamal.

1. Fakhar Zaman
2. Babar Azam
3. Saud Shakeel
4. Kamran Ghulam
5. Mohammad Rizwan (C + WK)
6. Agha Ali Salman
7. Aamer Jamal
8. Naseem Shah
9. Shaheen Shah Afridi
10. Abrar Ahmed
11. Haris Rauf

12. Tayyab Tahir
13. Sajid Khan
14. Rohail Nazir
15. Mohammad Hasnain/another pacer

Now I know my line-up is unlikely but this should be in consideration as you strengthen the batters who have the ability to play spin well in Saud & Ghulam.

Aamer Jamal is greatly out of form at the moment

 

[TeymurBlake]

Aamer Jamal is greatly out of form at the moment

Unfortunately, Pakistan don’t many other pace bowling ARs.

He can be utilised well but is inconsistent.

 

[gazza619]

Unfortunately, Pakistan don’t many other pace bowling ARs.

He can be utilised well but is inconsistent.

Pakistan’s recent ODI success has come without any pace allrounder. So I don’t think we should worry.

Jamal doesn’t strike me as someone who has the hunger to succeed.

 

[gazza619]

If that's the case, then I guess Saud will make the squad and bat at 5 with KG moving up to 3. Agha, Saud and KG to make up 10 overs.

That makes sense. I have heard reports of Shadab’s comeback. This will clearly mean that the fake allrounder will take a spot of a proper bowler and weaken the XI.

 

[Farabi]

More than willing to accept it for batting too even then it's hardly anything to boast about. 37 with ball 27 with bat and that's domestics.

So just to be clear you are advocating for Sajid based on his batting primarily. Is that right?

Hypothetically take that 27 list A average away you won't advocate for him right? Do answer this because I'm trying to understand the thought process here.

In what world is he a "much better bowler" than Nabi? Why are we mixing formats here?

I don't even want to compare their batting. That's laughable imo.

Nabi is a proper batsman. Sajid khan is Yasir Shah level.

If you are just going by stats we have better allrounders already in our team:

Kamran Ghulam.

List A Batting avg: 42
Lis A Bowl avg : 27 (69 wickets)

How does that sound?

Agha: 38 bat. 33 ball

So what's so special about Sajid khan's inverted all rounder stats?

If Sajid has to come into the team it has to be on the strength of his bowling and I don't see a case for it in white ball.

You make a valid point about Agha Salman and Kamran Ghulam having better List A stats.

However, my argument isn’t to prefer Sajid Khan over them—he shouldn’t be.

The idea is that Sajid can be considered for a No. 7 role if the team needs a bowler who provides control and can contribute with the bat.

When it comes to overall team composition, that No. 7 spot is still up for grabs. Personally, I believe it should go to a spin-bowling all-rounder in Asian conditions, with the other options being Arafat Minhas. We already know what Nawaz and Shadab can offer, so why not try somebody new?

While Sajid’s List A bowling average is ordinary, his economy rate of 4.2 stands out. It highlights his ability to provide quality control in the middle overs, and his bowling is clearly a cut above Agha Salman and Kamran Ghulam. He’s worth considering for white-ball cricket.

For context, Mohammad Nabi has a bowling average of 32 with an economy of 4.2, making Sajid a reasonable option in a similar role.

 

[Farabi]

You make a valid point about Agha Salman and Kamran Ghulam having better List A stats.

However, my argument isn’t to prefer Sajid Khan over them—he shouldn’t be.

The idea is that Sajid can be considered for a No. 7 role if the team needs a bowler who provides control and can contribute with the bat.

When it comes to overall team composition, that No. 7 spot is still up for grabs. Personally, I believe it should go to a spin-bowling all-rounder in Asian conditions, with the other options being Arafat Minhas. We already know what Nawaz and Shadab can offer, so why not try somebody new?

While Sajid’s List A bowling average is ordinary, his economy rate of 4.2 stands out. It highlights his ability to provide quality control in the middle overs, and his bowling is clearly a cut above Agha Salman and Kamran Ghulam. He’s worth considering for white-ball cricket.

For context, Mohammad Nabi has a bowling average of 32 with an economy of 4.2, making Sajid a reasonable option in a similar role.

@Marooned

Arafat Minhas and Sajid Khan have similar batting averages, but while Arafat’s bowling average is 30 compared to Sajid’s 37, Sajid has the edge in economy rate (4.2 vs. 4.5).

Personally, I feel Arafat Minhas has plenty of time to develop and would benefit from playing more red-ball cricket.

Sajid, on the other hand, with his extensive first-class and Test experience, seems like a more ready-made option to try out right now.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Pakistan’s recent ODI success has come without any pace allrounder. So I don’t think we should worry.

Jamal doesn’t strike me as someone who has the hunger to succeed.

Jahandad and Abbas should be preferred over jamal. Jamal is nowhere near in good form and should not be hyped now...

 

[Rana]

Usman Khan and Aamir Jamal will be in the CT squad

Sensible decision. Usman is the best batter of home conditions in Pakistan

 

[jamie smith]

Usman Khan and Aamir Jamal will be in the CT squad

Sensible decision. Usman is the best batter of home conditions in Pakistan

from where did u get this information??

 

[jamie smith]

Any update on squad announcement??

 

[RidiculousMan]

Any update on squad announcement??

My guess is they will be announcing it on Monday or Tuesday.

 

[Kianig89]

Imam
Fakhar
Babar
Rizwan
Saud
Agha
Irfan
Abrar
Naseem
SSA
Rauf
---------
Khusdil
Jamal
JK
Usman

Rumored squad

 

[mumtaz]

Imam
Fakhar
Babar
Rizwan
Saud
Agha
Irfan
Abrar
Naseem
SSA
Rauf
---------
Khusdil
Jamal
JK
Usman

Rumored squad

Lol, that can't be true. Where is KG and Hasnain?

 

[moey413]

Would like to see haider ali in squad

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Usman Khan and Aamir Jamal will be in the CT squad

Sensible decision. Usman is the best batter of home conditions in Pakistan

Usman Khan does not deserve to play for Pakistan in any format. He is an ugly hack who does not belong at the international level. You would have to be completely out of your mind to even have him in the CT squad.

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

My guess is they will be announcing it on Monday or Tuesday.

After the 2nd Test ends

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Bring back Faheem Ashraf.. he is in a supreme form these days!

 

[heddie19]

Fakhar
Saim/Imam
Babar
Rizwan
Kamran
Agha
Khushdil
Shaheen
Naseem
Rauf
Abrar

Irfan Niazi
Tayyab
Sufyan
Jahandad

 

[Rana]

Usman Khan does not deserve to play for Pakistan in any format. He is an ugly hack who does not belong at the international level. You would have to be completely out of your mind to even have him in the CT squad.

Have you seen your captain? The way he bats?

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

Have you seen your captain? The way he bats?

Yeah, he averaged 52 in ODI cricket last year, and 64 the year before that. Which makes him one of the best performing batsmen in the team.

 

[shah9425]

Yeah, he averaged 52 in ODI cricket last year, and 64 the year before that. Which makes him one of the best performing batsmen in the team.

Perfect response to this low iq cricket expert

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Fakhar
Saim/Imam
Babar
Rizwan
Kamran
Agha
Khushdil
Shaheen
Naseem
Rauf
Abrar

Irfan Niazi
Tayyab
Sufyan
Jahandad

Sufyan Muqeem is another half volley version of shadab khan.. i think sajid khan is the one who can better perform in ODI cricket.

 

[heddie19]

Sufyan Muqeem is another half volley version of shadab khan.. i think sajid khan is the one who can better perform in ODI cricket.

Sajid will never get selected in ODIs for CT. I have only named player that have a chance, also Aamer Jamal looks to be making it in place of Jahandad. Doesn't matter as neither will get a single game.

 

[Devadwal]

I found this will be pakistan champion trophy team .

This is not official team but most likely according to reports

 

[Nasty Naz]

Not sure why they haven't announced a squad yet but reported squad is concerning. You need Tayyab & Usman on the bench and no proper opener in the squad other than Fakhar? Just seems baffling. I do like their Khushdil inclusion though. Good power hitter at the end and a handy bowler.

The entire squad seems comprised of middle order batsmen and reportedly Rizwan/Babar would be opening with Fakhar. I can maybe get the Rizwan part since KG/Saud make sense for the middle order but the talks of Babar opening seems wild when he's been genuinely elite batting at 3 in ODI's. Whatever his issues are in the other format, ODI is Babar's best format so just leave him be at his best position.

Looks like their plan will be to go with 4 main bowlers (4 pacers or 3 pacers + Abrar) and Salman/Khushdil to bowl their 5th bowler quota.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Those who still want Shan in the squad should quit watching cricket.... Bring back Fakhar Imam combo back. These are home conditions, Imam is in good touch and he will do good job at home..

 

[mominsaigol]

Those who still want Shan in the squad should quit watching cricket.... Bring back Fakhar Imam combo back. These are home conditions, Imam is in good touch and he will do good job at home..

Oh nahi bhai. You claimed those who are supporting shan should quit but then mention imam's name? Maafi bhai. Imam is a serial loser in tournaments.

As much as I'm against babar atm, Just have him open and fakhar and bring saud at no 3.

Besides babar doesn't like spin anyway and should relish having access to first 10 easy overs to himself.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Oh nahi bhai. You claimed those who are supporting shan should quit but then mention imam's name? Maafi bhai. Imam is a serial loser in tournaments.

As much as I'm against babar atm, Just have him open and fakhar and bring saud at no 3.

Besides babar doesn't like spin anyway and should relish having access to first 10 easy overs to himself.

I am giving you the opener option and Imam is the only one in line. He was poor in the last tournaments but those were to at home. this CT is at home so he might excel in these conditions.

 

[mominsaigol]

I am giving you the opener option and Imam is the only one in line. He was poor in the last tournaments but those were to at home. this CT is at home so he might excel in these conditions.

Is their a hard and fast written rule that an opener has to open at all costs? Does Australia or England follow this rule?

Heck make me an opener over Imam and I'll single handidely take Pakistan t9 the final and make them lose to Australia? Atleast you'll get into a final with me which won't happen with Imam.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Is their a hard and fast written rule that an opener has to open at all costs? Does Australia or England follow this rule?

Heck make me an opener over Imam and I'll single handidely take Pakistan t9 the final and make them lose to Australia? Atleast you'll get into a final with me which won't happen with Imam.

Do you think PCB is going for babar/fakhar combo???

 

[mominsaigol]

Do you think PCB is going for babar/fakhar combo???

Yes

 

[BouncerGuy]

Yes

Well if you say so, then sure... not bad. Babar usually walked in around 3rd-4th over with Abdullah as an opener so why not just shift him to open.

 

[mominsaigol]

Well if you say so, then sure... not bad. Babar usually walked in around 3rd-4th over with Abdullah as an opener so why not just shift him to open.

1) Fakhar
2) Babar
3) Kamran/Saud
4) Rizwan
5) Kamran/Saud
6) Agha
7) Tayyab
8) Shaheen
9) Naseem
10) Rauf
11) Abrar

^^ This will be the playing 11

 

[RedwoodOriginal]

When are they going to announce the squad? One day before the start of the tournament? Or will it be at the toss?

 

[jamie smith]

after champions trophy lol

When are they going to announce the squad? One day before the start of the tournament? Or will it be at the toss?

 

[Aqib_mustafa]

Guys i dont want to see pak going with one spinner 3 fast bowlers in playing 11 doesn't make any sense you get two different spinners who can turn the ball both ways hard to pick if pak are serious about retaining their ct title these both got to be in playing 11 please no more 3 fast bowlers in dubai india match spinners will be the difference so aqib has to get this right at any cost.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

It depends on the squad. If the rumours about Sheddy and Khushdil are true then you won't need both of them.

 

[mominsaigol]

Guys i dont want to see pak going with one spinner 3 fast bowlers in playing 11 doesn't make any sense you get two different spinners who can turn the ball both ways hard to pick if pak are serious about retaining their ct title these both got to be in playing 11 please no more 3 fast bowlers in dubai india match spinners will be the difference so aqib has to get this right at any cost.

No, it depends on the pitch. If pindi is curated to be a flat track by icc then it spells death.

 

[RidiculousMan]

Those who still want Shan in the squad should quit watching cricket.... Bring back Fakhar Imam combo back. These are home conditions, Imam is in good touch and he will do good job at home..

Shan can be tried in One Days. Though if they are picking Usman then I'll happily take Imam