Champions Trophy 2025: Predicting Pakistan’s Playing XI for their clash against New Zealand 

Pakistan is finally set to host an ICC event after nearly three decades. The Men in Green will be hosting the Champions Trophy and head into the tournament as the defending champions. Mohammad Rizwan is tasked with the responsibility of not leading the side but also retaining the title. 

Speaking ahead of the first game of the tournament, Rizwan said to the media “Babar will continue opening the batting for us in the Champions Trophy. He is satisfied with his batting position. We want to bring genuine openers, but it is our home conditions, we want a left-right combination. Hence, we decided to have Babar Azam as an opener as he is technically sound batter,”

The 32-year-old seemed thrilled at the prospect of Pakistan hosting a huge event when he said “We suffered for 10 years. No team toured Pakistan, but the team continued to perform well. There should be no doubt that our team lacks players or quality. Yes, on the day we might lose and fall behind, we are trying to give our best and perform well in the tournament,”

Here is the likely Pakistan’s Playing XI vs New Zealand

Top order 

Fakhar Zaman was recalled to replace Saim Ayub who got injured during the South African tour. The left-handed batter scored a century in the 2017 finals against India and helped his side win the game. Babar Azam has been in dire form but one expects him to pick up his form during the tournament. 

Middle Order

Saud Shakeel is expected to bat at number three and the left-handed batter is exceptional at anchoring the innings. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan has always been a good batter in the ODI format and is also safe behind the wickets. Agha Salman who is also the vice-captain of the side will have to bat and bowl well during the campaign.

Lower-order

Pakistan’s lower order consists of two big hitters Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah who can give the ball a huge whack. Khushdil is also a very good bowler with the ability to take key wickets. Shaheen Afridi will be a force with the new ball and also bat well in the final few overs of the game. 

Tail enders  

Haris Rauf is fully fit after suffering an injury during the tri-series match against the Kiwis. Naseem Shah has started to bowl well and is always a handful with the new ball in the first few overs of the game. Naseem is also more than capable with the bat in hand. Abrar Ahmed is the sole front-line spinner in the side and can trouble the batters with his variations. 

Pakistan– Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (C and WK), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed 

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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