Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign turned into a disaster. From being defending champions to crashing out in the group stage, it was a fall no one saw coming. And now, former head coach Jason Gillespie has some strong words for the selectors.
The Australian legend has openly questioned why two young talents— Irfan Khan Niazi and Sufiyan Muqeem—were left out of the squad. Looking at Pakistan’s performances, he might just have a point.
Where is Irfan Khan Niazi?
Gillespie seems shocked that Pakistan didn’t pick Irfan Khan Niazi, and honestly, many fans feel the same.
“Irfan Khan Niazi is one of the hardest hitters and cleanest strikers of the ball in Pakistan. He is also the best fielder in the country,” said Gillespie.
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If that’s true, why wasn’t he included? A team that struggled to put up competitive totals could have really used a power-hitter like Niazi. His ability to clear the ropes and his sharp fielding could have made a difference.
Sufiyan Muqeem: A Wasted Opportunity?
Pakistan’s selection decisions went from bad to worse when they picked only one specialist spinner. And leaving out Sufiyan Muqeem? That was a big blunder, according to Gillespie.
“Sufiyan Muqeem is a very talented cricketer who, if given the right opportunities, can be a great servant for Pakistan cricket,” he stated.
Jason Gillespie believes Muqeem has already proven he has the temperament and skills for international cricket. With Pakistan struggling in the middle overs, a quality left-arm spinner could have made a huge difference.
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Pakistan went into the tournament with serious gaps in the squad. No big hitters to finish games. Not enough spin options. And predictably, they paid the price.
A team known for producing world-class spinners and explosive finishers somehow left out two players who fit those roles perfectly. The result? Defeats against New Zealand and India, and an early exit from the tournament.
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