Champions One-Day Cup: Wolves vs. Panthers Set to Kick Off Tournament in Faisalabad
The highly anticipated Champions One-Day Cup is set to begin, with Mohammad Rizwan leading the Wolves against Shadab Khan’s Panthers in the tournament opener on Thursday, 12 September, at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium. Cricket fans are eager to see both teams, packed with local and international talent, compete for glory in this prestigious event.
Rizwan expressed his excitement about captaining the Wolves and playing in front of a home crowd, as the team’s academy is based in Faisalabad. Speaking to PCB Digital, he said, “It’s heartening to see such a competitive domestic tournament come to Faisalabad. I’m excited to lead the Wolves, and I know the local fans will support us, acting as our 12th player.” He added that the mix of youth and experience in the team is a rare feature in domestic tournaments, which makes the Champions One-Day Cup stand out.
Wolves’ Squad Overview The Wolves boast a strong roster that includes top players like Fakhar Zaman, Iftikhar Ahmed, and rising star Naseem Shah. With a combination of seasoned international players and young talent, Rizwan is confident that his team can perform well and make the home fans proud.
Wolves Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Abdul Samad, Akif Javed, Ali Usman, Bilawal Bhatti, Haseebullah, Iftikhar Ahmed, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Faizan, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Mohammad Sarwar Afridi, Muhammad Imran, Naseem Shah, Nisar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shahnawaz Dahani, Zahid Mehmood, Zain Abbas
Wolves’ Match Schedule (All matches at 3 PM):
- 12 Sep – Wolves vs. Panthers
- 15 Sep – Wolves vs. Stallions
- 17 Sep – Dolphins vs. Wolves
- 20 Sep – Lions vs. Wolves
Panthers’ Challenge Under Shadab Khan Shadab Khan, captain of the Panthers, is equally enthusiastic about the tournament, returning to Faisalabad where his List-A career began in 2015. Shadab, along with mentor Saqlain Mushtaq, aims to create a positive and relaxed environment for his team to perform at their best. With Pakistan’s demanding white-ball schedule ahead, including over 15 ODIs in the next few months, Shadab is looking to build momentum early in the domestic season.
“I appreciate the PCB for arranging this tournament at the start of the season,” Shadab remarked. “It’s a great opportunity for the players to find their rhythm ahead of the upcoming international challenges, including the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.”
Panthers Squad (To be trimmed to 15 on 10 September): Shadab Khan (captain), Abdul Wahid Bangalzai, Ahmed Bashir, Ali Asfand, Ali Raza, Amad Butt, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Haider Ali, Mohammad Hasnain, Mohammad Umar, Mohammad Zeeshan, Mubasir Khan, Rehan Afridi, Rizwan Mehmood, Saim Ayub, Umar Siddiq, Usama Mir, Usman Khan, Usman Salahuddin
Panthers’ Match Schedule:
- 12 Sep – Wolves vs. Panthers (Day/Night)
- 14 Sep – Dolphins vs. Panthers (Day/Night)
- 16 Sep – Lions vs. Panthers (Day)
- 21 Sep – Panthers vs. Stallions (Day/Night)
The Champions One-Day Cup promises to deliver thrilling cricket as both teams look to start the tournament on a high note. Fans are sure to be treated to exciting matches with a blend of youth and experience on full display.
