National team head coach Aqib Javed has said that only one spinner plays in the Playing XI, and Salman Agha, Khushdil and Abrar will be utilised for spin bowling.
“A fast bowling all-rounder was not available for a long time, so keeping in mind the matches with New Zealand and India, a fast bowler all-rounder has been added to the team,” said the former cricketer in a media talk in Lahore.
He said that cricket has become quite fast-paced in the last four to five years, stating that there was no rocket science in scoring 300 runs. “Pakistan’s pitches will be favouring batting and long runs must be scored,” he maintained.
Pakistan Interim Head Coach Aqib Javed Media Talk#3Nations1Trophy pic.twitter.com/yCOjKziF6M
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Aqib Javed further said that the selection of Aamir Jamal was also considered, as an all-rounder who could bat in the top seven, was needed. He added that all the teams participating in the Champions Trophy 2025 were strong.
“Sufyan Muqeem played one ODI match, and Abrar was given rest. We can’t take them on tour and include them without having played,” he stressed.
Aqib Javed said there was a lot of talk about Khushdil's inclusion, and he had been considered before the Australia series as well. “Khushdil Shah plays well on Asian pitches. Saim had an injury and Khushdil was an all-rounder. Saim could not be replaced by a batter, so we wanted an all-rounder,” he explained.
He also disclosed that Usman Khan was a second wicketkeeper, adding that he was the best option. He remarked that India should be concerned about Jasprit Bumrah's fitness, and the teams playing in the Champions Trophy should be considered strong opponents.
