Pakistan’s Test Captain in Contention to Make Champions Trophy Squad

With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 fast approaching, Pakistan’s selectors are considering potential changes to their ODI lineup with Shan Masood emerging as a surprise pick to get the nod. The need for change has been sparked by the injury to young opener Saim Ayub.

Saim sustained an ankle injury during the Test series against South Africa and is currently under medical supervision in England. His availability remains uncertain but all signs point to him being ruled out for the tournament.  As a result, selectors are exploring alternatives, including Test captain Shan Masood, whose inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad reportedly hinges on his performance in the ongoing Test series against the West Indies.

Sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggest that Abdullah Shafique’s dip in form has opened the door for Shan Masood to be considered for the ODI format. While Shan’s ODI record of 163 runs in nine matches, with a lone half-century, is modest, his vast experience in domestic cricket and English county competitions adds to his credentials.

Shan, who last played an ODI in 2023 against New Zealand, is seen as a stabilizing presence for Pakistan’s top order. However, selectors are taking a cautious approach, closely monitoring his performance before finalizing the squad. Surprisingly, the hosts are the only team yet to confirm their squad for the tournament which is under a month away. 

Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, set to commence on February 8, will likely serve as the foundation for the Champions Trophy roster. Participating teams must finalize their squads by February 11, following the submission of preliminary lists to the ICC.

The Champions Trophy 2025, featuring eight teams and 15 matches, will take place from February 19 to March 9. Matches will be hosted across four venues: Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. The tournament opener on February 19 will see Pakistan take on New Zealand in Karachi, while the highly anticipated clash between Pakistan and India is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.