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Former Pakistan cricketer questions Faheem Ashraf's inclusion in Champions Trophy squad

Faheem had scored 454 runs in 11 innings at an average of 44 and has taken 19 wickets in 14 innings in List A matches

Former Pakistan cricketer questions Faheem Ashraf's inclusion in Champions Trophy squad PHOTO: AFP

Former Pakistan pacer Tanveer Ahmed has raised concerns over the inclusion of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf in Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, questioning his recent form in international cricket.

Speaking on a TV show, Tanveer pointed out that despite his poor performance in the last 20 One Day Internationals (ODIs), Faheem was included in the squad. He stated, “He has just nine wickets in the last 20 innings, a batting average of only 10 in his last 34 innings, and yet he is included in Pakistan’s squad.”

However, his co-host on the show defended Faheem’s selection, mentioning his impressive performances in List A cricket during the 2023-24 season. According to the co-host, Faheem has scored 454 runs in 11 innings at an average of 44 and had taken 19 wickets in 14 innings in List A matches, which played a key role in his inclusion for the Champions Trophy.

Despite these domestic achievements, Tanveer Ahmed remained critical, arguing that Faheem Ashraf's international statistics should carry more weight in the selection process. The former pacer also pointed out that players like opening batter Imam ul Haq and all-rounder Aamer Jamal, who had better performances in domestic cricket, were excluded from the squad.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the squad for the upcoming tri-nation series with New Zealand and South Africa, as well as the Champions Trophy 2025, on January 31. Alongside Faheem Ashraf, the 15-member squad also includes returning opener Fakhar Zaman, all-rounder Khushdil Shah, and batter Saud Shakeel.