The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just around the corner, and Pakistan’s selectors are busy finalizing their squad. With injuries, form slumps, and last-minute decisions looming large, one name is making headlines — Test captain Shan Masood.
Could Shan be the answer to Pakistan’s top-order woes in the Champions Trophy? Let’s dive into the buzz around his potential inclusion.
Why Shan Masood?
The talented left-hander has entered the conversation as a possible replacement for the injured Saim Ayub. Saim, who suffered an ankle injury during the Test series against South Africa, is currently in England under medical supervision. While he’s expected to return in early February, the management is cautious about rushing him back.
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This leaves selectors exploring other options, and Shan Masood has emerged as a strong candidate. Though his ODI record isn’t extraordinary—163 runs in nine matches at an average of 18—his wealth of experience in one-day cricket, both domestically and in English county cricket, adds to his appeal.
Shan’s ODI Form and the Bigger Picture
Shan’s last ODI outing was against New Zealand in 2023, where he struggled to leave a mark. However, his ability to anchor an innings and adapt to different conditions could bring much-needed stability to Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Still, there’s a catch: Shan’s inclusion depends heavily on his performance in the ongoing Test series against the West Indies. If he delivers, his case for an ODI spot could become even stronger.
Another option for the top order is Imam-ul-Haq, who has been a reliable performer in ODIs. However, his recent inconsistency has kept selectors on the fence. Alongside Imam, emerging talent Haseebullah is also in the mix, making the battle for the opener’s slot even more competitive.
Read More: Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Squad To Be Finalized Soon
Who’s Locked In?
While there’s uncertainty around Shan and Imam, some names are already set in stone. Pakistan’s core group includes star players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan.
In the bowling department, the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf is expected to lead the charge. They’ll be backed by Mohammad Hasnain, Kamran Ghulam, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, and young spinner Sufiyan Muqeem.
Pakistan’s selectors have their work cut out. The final squad for the Champions Trophy must be submitted to the ICC by February 11, leaving little room for error.
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