Pakistan’s 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, which the selection committee had announced on 31 January, was criticised for the inclusion of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf as well as for picking Abrar Ahmed as the lone spinner.

Pakistan’s CT squad was strongly criticised by some former players and experts for not having more than one specialist opener and for picking just one specialist spinner - Abrar Ahmed.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks the tournament's return after an eight-year hiatus and is set to take place in Pakistan, starting February 19th. As the host nation and defending champions, Pakistan will compete against seven of the world's best teams to retain their title.

Following what happened to New Zealand allrounder Rachin Ravindra, there have been speculations of a change of venue and the preferred choice is Dubai.

Pakistan will showcase its newly upgraded stadium at Lahore when it takes on New Zealand in the opening game Saturday of a tri-series cricket tournament, which also involves an understrength South Africa.

For India's matches, Reiffel and Holdstock will be on-field umpires for the clash against Bangladesh on February 20 in Dubai, with Illingworth being TV umpire, Michael Gough as the fourth umpire and Boon will be the match referee.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has challenged Pakistan’s cricket team to not only aim for the ICC Champions Trophy but also to defeat India on February 23 in Dubai. The revamped Gaddafi Stadium was unveiled at a grand event.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19, with Pakistan as the official host. However, Team India will play all its matches in Dubai. The 15-member Indian squad has been announced,