Breaking News: Five to seven players shouldn’t be in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad: Rashid Latif….See More

Despite his reservations regarding the selection, Latif remained optimistic about Pakistan’s chances in the tournament

Former Pakistan cricket captain and wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has raised concerns over the selection of the national team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, claiming that five to seven players in the squad do not deserve a place.

During a television interview on a private news channel, Latif was asked about the players he felt didn’t deserve a place in the 15-member squad. In response, he claimed, “There are six or seven players who shouldn’t have been included.”

Despite his reservations regarding the selection, Latif remained optimistic about Pakistan’s chances in the tournament. When asked whether the national team had the potential to win the Champions Trophy, Latif responded confidently, “Yes, Pakistan can win.”

However, when pressed on how the team could triumph despite what he described as questionable selections, Latif explained, “Five or six players are capable of winning matches, and they can still lead Pakistan to victory.”

This isn’t the first time Latif has publicly criticized the squad. He had previously questioned the inclusion of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf and criticized the selection committee for its perceived lack of preparation, describing their efforts as incomplete.

Latif also pointed out the absence of opener Saim Ayub, who he believes played a crucial role in the team’s victories, stressing that his absence would be significant.

Additionally, Latif raised concerns over the team’s opening pair, pointing out the lack of a solid opener despite Fakhar Zaman’s return to the squad. He suggested that Zaman may partner with Saud Shakeel or even Babar Azam at the top of the order.

Latif also expressed doubt over the return of Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf, both of whom had limited international exposure in recent years. He criticized the inclusion of players with long gaps in their international careers, questioning the timing of their selection.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had announced the 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which includes key players such as Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakil, and Tayyab Tahir. The squad also features all-rounders Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Salman Ali Agha (deputy captain).

The squad includes wicketkeeper-batsmen Mohammad Rizwan (captain) and Usman Khan, with a bowling lineup consisting of spinners Abrar Ahmed and fast bowlers Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.