Pakistan are expected to make a crucial change to their playing XI for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against New Zealand on Wednesday at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. Haris Rauf will replace Faheem Ashraf.
Rauf, who had missed previous matches due to a muscle strain in the lower chest wall region, was cleared to return to the team following an injury incurred during the tri-series opener against New Zealand.
Muhammad Rizwan will lead the team, with Saud Shakeel partnering Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman at the top of the lineup. The middle order will include Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, and Khushdil Shah.
Pakistan may opt for a pace-heavy attack, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf leading the bowling attack. Abrar Ahmed will be the only specialist spinner in the squad.
Pakistan’s Playing XI:
Muhammad Rizwan (c), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
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