(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Set to Announce Squad for Asia Cup 2025 and Tri-Nation Series Soon
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is inching closer to finalizing its squad for the highly anticipated ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 and the upcoming tri-nation series involving Afghanistan and the UAE.
📢 Announcement Expected Mid-August
According to local media reports, the official squad announcement is expected in the second week of August. Sources suggest that the selection committee will retain the core players who recently featured in the white-ball series against Bangladesh and the West Indies, with only minor changes anticipated.
Injury Concerns: Fakhar Zaman Under Watch
One of the key concerns for the selectors is the fitness of opener Fakhar Zaman, who sustained a hamstring injury during the West Indies T20I series. He was forced to miss the remainder of that tour, including the ODIs, and has since returned to Lahore for rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy.
The PCB medical staff is monitoring his recovery closely. His inclusion will depend on his progress in the coming days.
Shadab Khan’s Return Unlikely
Meanwhile, Shadab Khan, who has been sidelined due to injury, is unlikely to feature in the upcoming events. His continued absence clears the path for other contenders to cement their spots in the team.
Recent Form: A Mixed Bag for Pakistan
Pakistan’s recent performances have been inconsistent. After a disappointing series loss to Bangladesh, the team—led by Salman Ali Agha—bounced back to defeat the West Indies in their latest assignment. New head coach Mike Hesson will be keen to build on that momentum ahead of a busy calendar.
Asia Cup 2025 & Tri-Series Fixtures
Before the Asia Cup kicks off, Pakistan will participate in a tri-nation series with Afghanistan and UAE in Sharjah—an ideal opportunity to fine-tune combinations. In the Asia Cup, Pakistan is placed in Pool A alongside India, UAE, and Oman.
🏆 Asia Cup Quest Continues
Pakistan will be aiming to end their long wait for an Asia Cup title, with their last triumph coming over a decade ago.
🔔 Stay Tuned
Cricket fans across the country eagerly await the official squad announcement. All eyes will be on whether Fakhar Zaman recovers in time—and what surprises the selectors may have in store.