Pakistan’s Playing XI Against India: Pakistan faces a high-stakes challenge in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as they gear up to take on arch-rivals India. After a heavy 60-run defeat to New Zealand, the team needs strategic changes to bounce back. With Fakhar Zaman sidelined due to injury and Haris Rauf struggling, adjustments in the playing XI are inevitable.
Key Squad Updates
- Fakhar Zaman is likely to miss the India match due to a knee injury.
- Imam-ul-Haq is expected to replace Fakhar as the opener.
- Saud Shakeel’s poor form puts his spot at risk.
- Haris Rauf had an expensive spell but may retain his place due to a lack of alternatives.
- Most of the team is expected to remain unchanged.
Pakistan’s New Opening Combination
Fakhar Zaman sustained a knee injury in the first match, affecting his movement and shot execution. Reports suggest he may be ruled out of the tournament. If confirmed, Imam-ul-Haq will step in as his replacement. Imam has been a consistent ODI performer, amassing 3,138 runs in 71 matches at an impressive average of 48.28 and a strike rate of 82.56.
Middle-Order Adjustments: Will Saud Shakeel Be Dropped?
Saud Shakeel’s struggles continue, with only 29 runs in three innings, averaging 9.67. His strike rate of 59.18 shows he has neither accelerated nor anchored the innings effectively.
Pakistan has two potential replacements:
- Kamran Ghulam – A solid option to add stability.
- Usman Khan – Less experienced but an aggressive stroke-maker.
Ghulam is the frontrunner due to his ability to absorb pressure and rotate the strike.
Haris Rauf: Should Pakistan Persist with Him?
Haris Rauf had a nightmarish outing against New Zealand, conceding 83 runs in 10 overs. His recent ODI stats have also been underwhelming. However, Pakistan’s backup options are limited:
- Mohammad Hasnain – Has taken only 5 wickets in 6 ODIs at an average of 51.60 since 2024.
Given the lack of alternatives, Rauf may get another chance to redeem himself.
Batting and Bowling Core Remains Intact
The middle order remains stable, with Mohammad Rizwan, Agha Salman, and Tayyab Tahir occupying crucial slots. Khushdil Shah, who impressed with a half-century against New Zealand, is set to continue at number seven.
Bowling Attack
- Shaheen Afridi had an off day against New Zealand but is a proven match-winner, with 7 wickets in 4 ODIs against India.
- Naseem Shah showed rhythm in the last match and will lead the attack alongside Shaheen and Rauf.
- Abrar Ahmed will handle spin responsibilities.
Pakistan’s Strongest XI vs India
Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (C/WK), Agha Salman, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed