PCB submits 20-player list for Champions Trophy

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially submitted a preliminary squad of 20 players to the International Cricket Council (ICC) for the upcoming Champions Trophy.

The PCB is hopeful that injured players will regain fitness before the final submission deadline of February 12, set by the ICC. This deadline provides room for adjustments, with the ICC Committee ultimately deciding on any changes after February 12 to the final 15-member squad.

Sources close to the PCB’s Selection Committee told ‘The News’ that the tentative squad comprises the nation’s top players, leaving room for fitness updates on key individuals before the mega event.

“The selectors have chosen the best 20 players for the Champions Trophy. All those in contention for Pakistan’s One-Day team are included in the list,” a source said. One major fitness concern is Saim Ayub, who is recovering from an ankle fracture. The PCB has yet to receive a conclusive update on his rehabilitation progress.

“At this point, we cannot confirm Saim’s fitness status ahead of the final squad’s announcement. Another player’s fitness is also under question, which is why we have submitted a list of 20 players,” the source added.

Experts, however, remain cautious about Saim’s availability. Dr Waqar Ahmed, former Deputy Director General of the PSB and an expert in sports injuries, emphasised the challenges of recovering from an ankle fracture.

“Ankle fractures are among the most sensitive injuries for the athletes. Full recovery requires not just healing but extensive rehabilitation to withstand the rigors of international cricket. Premature inclusion could jeopardise a player’s future,” Dr Ahmed stated.

Despite the PCB’s silence on the full list, The News has learnt that key players including Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah are in the list. Rising stars like Tayyab Tahir, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Ibrar Ahmed also feature in the squad. The final 15-man squad is expected to be revealed before the February 12 deadline.