The Champions Trophy makes a return to international cricket after an eight-year gap. It will also be the first ICC event hosted in Pakistan since the 1996 ODI World Cup. The competition begins on February 19, with the hosts facing New Zealand in the opening match at the National Stadium in Karachi.
The PCB is allowing Saim time to prove his fitness ahead of his return. If Ayub isn't fit in time, experienced batter Shan Masood is expected to replace him, with Fakhar Zaman also potentially making a comeback to the squad.
"He is expected to return to Pakistan in early February, and the PCB is giving him every opportunity to prove his fitness. If Ayub is unable to recover in time, experienced batter Shan Masood is likely to replace him, while Fakhar Zaman may also make a comeback to the team."
Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Expected to Be Announced by February 3
"According to sources, the PCB is expected to reveal the squads for both the Tri-Nation ODI Series and the Champions Trophy within the first three days of February. The Tri-Nation Series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa, begins on February 8 and is seen as a vital preparatory event for the Champions Trophy," the report added.
Abdullah Shafique and Mohammad Hasnain Likely to Be Dropped from Champions Trophy Squad
The Champions Trophy will be played at three venues in the Men in Green, while India’s matches will take place in Dubai as part of a hybrid model. India and the Men in Green have been placed in Group A alongside Bangladesh and New Zealand, while Group B includes Australia, England, South Africa, and Afghanistan.
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