Pakistan’s Strongest Squad for the 2024 Champions Trophy
A Remarkable Turnaround in 2024
Pakistan’s cricket team faced challenges for most of 2024, struggling in all formats. However, in the last month, they have made an impressive comeback, especially in the ODI format.
Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, the team has quickly become a force to reckon with. They have won three consecutive ODI series, and their latest achievement was a historic whitewash over South Africa at home. This victory will surely boost their confidence ahead of the 2024 Champions Trophy.
A Balanced and Competitive Squad
Pakistan’s squad is now more balanced than ever, with quality players in all departments of the game. Ahead of the Champions Trophy, here’s a look at their strongest possible lineup.
Batting Lineup: Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub to Open
Pakistan’s batting has become one of the strongest in ODIs, with a powerful lineup ready to take on any opposition. Young opener Saim Ayub has been in excellent form, recently scoring two centuries against South Africa.
He will open the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman, not Abdullah Shafique, who struggled with three ducks in a row against South Africa.
While Shafique will remain in the squad as a backup opener, Fakhar and Ayub will form an explosive opening pair, allowing Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to play their natural game in the middle-order.
In addition to these top-order players, Kamran Ghulam and Tayyab Tahir, two promising young players, will also be included.
All-rounder Agha Salman, known for his useful spin bowling, will be another key player, particularly on Dubai and Pakistan’s home pitches.
All-Rounders: Agha Salman and Irfan Khan Niazi
Alongside Agha Salman, who will play an important role with both bat and ball, Irfan Khan Niazi will be the second all-rounder. However, due to his lack of experience, Niazi might not get a chance to play in the starting XI unless there are injuries.
Bowling Attack: Shaheen, Rauf, and Naseem Shah
Pakistan’s pace attack, featuring Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah, is one of the best in world cricket. These three fast bowlers wreaked havoc against South Africa in their recent ODI series and will be key to Pakistan’s success in the Champions Trophy. Their ability to take quick wickets and control the game makes them a fearsome trio.
For spin, Pakistan will rely on mystery spinners Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem. Mohammad Hasnain will also be available as a backup pacer if any of the main bowlers are injured.
Conclusion
With a strong batting lineup, an experienced and potent bowling attack, and capable all-rounders, Pakistan has built a competitive team for the 2024 Champions Trophy. Their recent form and squad depth make them one of the top contenders for the tournament.
