Rashid Latif offers key advice for Pakistan before Champions Trophy 2025

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has urged the national cricket team to adopt a bold and aggressive mindset as they prepare to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.  

In a recent interview, Latif expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to retain their title. He emphasized the importance of an attacking approach, especially since Pakistan is hosting the tournament—a historic moment for the country’s cricket.  

“These are exciting times for a cricket-crazy nation. The world’s top teams will be participating in this mega event,” Rashid said.  

The former wicketkeeper-batter also praised the efforts of the Pakistan government and the PCB for ensuring the tournament takes place in Pakistan. While India’s matches will be held in the UAE due to political tensions, Latif stressed that Pakistan should focus only on their own game.  

“I commend the efforts of the Pakistan government and the PCB for their relentless lobbying with the ICC. India will play their matches in the UAE, and that is their business; Pakistan should focus solely on playing attacking cricket,” he said.  

Latif highlighted Pakistan’s strong spin-bowling lineup as a key advantage for the tournament. He named Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem, Faisal Akram, and Salman Ali Agha as players who could make a significant impact in home conditions.  

“I am confident that our players will seize the opportunity to play in home conditions,” he said.  
 
However, Latif voiced concerns about Pakistan’s opening combination. With Saim Ayub injured and Abdullah Shafique out of form, the team faces a challenge in finding a stable pair at the top.  

“I am worried about Saim Ayub’s injury, and with Abdullah Shafique also out of form, we are left in a bit of a dilemma,” he said.  

Latif noted that Pakistan has experimented with several openers in recent years, including Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, and Abdullah. He suggested Fakhar Zaman and Shan Masood might be the selectors’ choice.  

“If Fakhar returns to full fitness, it would be great for the team. Perhaps the selectors will opt for him and Shan Masood as the opening pair. We’ll have to wait and see,” he remarked.  

The Champions Trophy will take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, with matches hosted in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. The eight teams are divided into two groups:  

- Group A: Pakistan, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh  
- Group B: Afghanistan, South Africa, England, Australia  

Pakistan will face New Zealand in the tournament opener on February 19 in Karachi. The highly anticipated clash between Pakistan and India is set for February 23 in Dubai.