The wait is finally over! After almost 28 years, Pakistan is set to host an international cricket tournament, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. While all participating teams seem well-prepared despite missing some key players, Pakistan’s situation is quite the opposite. With only a short time left before their opening match against New Zealand, there is little clarity about their plans, strategy, or even their best XI.
Is this unpredictability Pakistan’s greatest strength, or is it a sign of deeper issues? Let’s break down the concerns surrounding the team.
Pakistan’s Opening Dilemma: Who Partners Fakhar Zaman?
Pakistan faces a significant challenge at the top of the order. With no proper second opener in the squad, the management has been experimenting, but nothing looks settled.
Babar Azam opened in the recent tri-nation series, but his best position has always been one-down. If he continues as an opener, the middle order could weaken.
If Babar moves back to No. 3, then who will open? Usman Khan is in squad but hasn’t yet proven himself on the big stage.
Saud Shakeel is a solid Test batter, but will he be able to handle the pressure of limited-overs cricket? His natural game is aggressive, but can he control his recklessness?
Kamran Ghulam, another contender, is going through a rough patch with poor form.
The lack of a settled opening partnership could put unnecessary pressure on the rest of the batting lineup.
Middle Order Uncertainty: Who Anchors the Innings?
If Babar stays at opening position, the responsibility of anchoring the innings remains a major concern.
Mohammad Rizwan has been a consistent performer, but he cannot do it alone in every match.
Salman Ali Agha has been playing crucial innings, but can he step up in high-pressure moments?
With Babar opening, there’s a gap in the middle order that Pakistan has yet to fill.
Without a reliable middle-order structure, collapses could become a frequent issue.
All-Rounders: Can They Deliver?
The No. 6 and 7 spots, traditionally occupied by all-rounders hold immense importance, especially in modern cricket where finishing power is crucial.
Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf are expected to play these roles, but neither has consistently delivered in both departments.
If they fail, Pakistan might struggle with lower-order contributions, which are crucial in close games.
The lack of a proper finisher is another worry. Who will take charge in the last few overs Khushdil, Faheem, or Tayyab Tahir?
Spin Bowling: A Major Concern?
Pakistan enters the tournament with a weak spin department.
Abrar Ahmed is the only specialist spinner in the squad, which puts enormous pressure on him.
Khushdil Shah and Salman Ali Agha will likely be used as part-time options, but can they provide enough breakthroughs?
With spin playing a key role in subcontinent conditions, is Pakistan taking a major risk by not including another specialist?
Fast Bowling: Can They Handle the Pressure?
Pakistan has always been known for its fast-bowling strength, but even this department has question marks.
Haris Rauf’s fitness is a major concern. Will he be able to play matches? And if so than will he bowl at full pace?
Shaheen Afridi will be crucial with the new ball and at the death, but will he have enough support?
Naseem Shah, known for his late swing and enthusiasm and wicket-taking ability, has been inconsistent lately. Can he step up in big games?
The fast-bowling unit needs to be at its best, especially considering the lack of spin options.
The Bigger Issue: No Clear Strategy?
Perhaps the most concerning factor is that Pakistan doesn’t seem to have a defined game plan. Unlike other teams that have a structured approach, Pakistan appears to be relying on individual brilliance rather than a well-thought-out strategy.
There is no clarity on the best playing XI.
There is no defined strategy for powerplay, middle overs, or death overs.
The team composition seems unsettled, raising concerns about decision-making at the management level.
Pakistan’s Biggest Strength? Their Unpredictability!
Despite all these issues, Pakistan remains one of the most unpredictable teams in world cricket. On their day, they can defeat any team, but their inconsistency makes them just as vulnerable.
Will Pakistan’s unpredictability work in their favor, or will their lack of preparation cost them big matches? The opening game against New Zealand will give us the first real answers.
Author: Sufian Shahid
