Imam-ul-Haq Set to Join Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
In an exciting development for Pakistani cricket fans, Imam-ul-Haq has received his Dubai visa and is all set to travel today to join the national squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Sources have confirmed that the talented left-handed batsman will be departing for Dubai on AirBlue flight PA410 at 1 PM, marking a significant moment as he prepares to contribute to Pakistan’s campaign in this prestigious tournament.
Arrival and Team Dynamics
Imam’s journey to Dubai comes after a brief stay in Lahore, where he arrived from Karachi just last night. His inclusion in the squad is particularly noteworthy as he steps in as a replacement for Fakhar Zaman, who has been unable to participate. This change underscores the dynamic nature of team selections in high-stakes tournaments, where every player’s contribution can be pivotal.
Recent Performance and Statistics
The 28-year-old cricketer has a commendable track record in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Having played 72 ODIs, Imam has amassed a total of 3,138 runs at an impressive average of 48.27. His performance includes nine centuries and 20 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to anchor innings and play crucial roles in matches. His last ODI appearance was during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 against South Africa, where he demonstrated his skill on the international stage.
Last International Appearance
Imam’s last international outing was in the Boxing Day Test against Australia in December 2023 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. This experience on a global platform adds to his confidence as he prepares to face one of the biggest challenges in cricket—playing against India in the Champions Trophy.
Training and Preparation
As Imam prepares to join his teammates, the Pakistan squad is gearing up for a crucial training session in Dubai today. This session is vital as they prepare for their second match of the tournament against arch-rivals India on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with fans eagerly anticipating this high-stakes encounter.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Journey
Pakistan, the defending champions and hosts of the tournament, began their campaign on a challenging note, suffering a 60-run defeat against New Zealand. This loss has heightened the stakes for their upcoming match against India, making it essential for the team to regroup and strategize effectively. Following the clash with India, Pakistan will return home to face Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27, adding further intensity to their schedule.
The Squad Overview
The Pakistan squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a blend of experience and youth, featuring key players who have shown their mettle in international cricket. The lineup includes:
- Mohammad Rizwan (c)
- Babar Azam
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir
- Faheem Ashraf
- Khushdil Shah
- Salman Ali Agha (vc)
- Usman Khan
- Abrar Ahmed
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
This diverse squad is poised to make a significant impact in the tournament, with each player bringing unique strengths to the team.
Looking Ahead
As Imam-ul-Haq embarks on his journey to Dubai, the anticipation builds for what lies ahead in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With the team rallying together and focusing on their next match, the spirit of competition is alive and well, promising thrilling moments for cricket enthusiasts around the globe.
