Pakistan have officially announced their 17-member Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad, led by Salman Ali Agha. The team will also compete in the UAE Tri-Series before heading into the high-profile Asia Cup. With a mix of seasoned stars and young talent, the squad aims to reclaim continental glory.
Salman Ali Agha to Lead Pakistan
The spotlight is firmly on Salman Ali Agha Pakistan captain, as he takes charge of the team for both the tri-series and the Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad campaign. Salman’s rise as a leader comes at a crucial time, and he will be expected to balance Pakistan’s batting strength with tactical maturity.
The squad features experienced campaigners like Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, and Faheem Ashraf. On the bowling front, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Waseem Jr. form a fearsome pace attack. Youngsters including Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Haris will add freshness to the lineup.
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Notable Absentees – Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan
One of the major talking points around the Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad is the absence of two of Pakistan’s biggest names – Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. The selectors have opted to give opportunities to younger players like Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris, and Hasan Nawaz, signaling a fresh approach for the tournament.
While their exclusion has surprised many fans, the management believes this squad, under Salman Ali Agha Pakistan captain, has the right balance of experience and youth to compete strongly. The responsibility of guiding the batting unit will now fall on Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, and the exciting young middle order.
Shaheen Afridi to Lead the Bowling Attack
One of the most anticipated names in the Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad is Shaheen Shah Afridi. Known for his fiery pace and wicket-taking ability, he will be a key figure in the tournament. Fans still remember how Shaheen Afridi Asia Cup 2025 preparations have been shaped by his match-winning spells in ICC events.
In the upcoming tri-series and Asia Cup, Pakistan will rely heavily on him both with the new ball and in the death overs. His ability to strike early and provide breakthroughs can set the tone for Pakistan’s campaign.
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Pakistan’s Tri-Series Challenge Before Asia Cup
Before the Asia Cup begins, the Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad will participate in a tri-series featuring Afghanistan and the UAE. All matches will be played in Sharjah between August 29 and September 7. This series will give Pakistan the opportunity to test combinations, especially under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha Pakistan captain.
Tri-Series Schedule (Sharjah)
- 29 August – Afghanistan vs Pakistan
- 30 August – UAE vs Pakistan
- 2 September – Pakistan vs Afghanistan
- 4 September – Pakistan vs UAE
- 7 September – Final
Asia Cup 2025 Group Fixtures
Pakistan have been placed in Group A alongside Oman, India, and UAE. The Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad will begin their campaign against Oman on September 12 in Dubai.
Group Matches:
- 12 September – Oman vs Pakistan, Dubai
- 14 September – India vs Pakistan, Dubai
- 17 September – UAE vs Pakistan, Dubai
The Super Fours will take place from September 20–26 in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with the final on September 28 in Dubai.
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Pakistan’s History in the Asia Cup
The Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad will look to emulate the achievements of past sides. Pakistan have featured in the tournament 15 times, winning twice – first under Moin Khan in 2000 and again under Misbah-ul-Haq in 2012.
This time, the team carries a balanced mix of youth and experience. With Shaheen Afridi Asia Cup 2025 preparation in full swing and the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, the squad is eager to end their title drought.
For team details: Pakistan players profile – ESPN Cricinfo
Official info: PCB – Pakistan Cricket Board
Tournament details: Asian Cricket Council
Conclusion
The announcement of the Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 squad has generated huge excitement among cricket fans. With Salman Ali Agha Pakistan captain leading the side for the first time and senior players like Fakhar Zaman and Hasan Ali providing balance, the squad looks well-rounded. The inclusion of youngsters such as Saim Ayub and Hasan Nawaz reflects Pakistan’s strategy to build for the future.
Much will depend on Shaheen Afridi Asia Cup 2025 performances, as he remains the backbone of the bowling unit. If Shaheen can replicate his big-match heroics and the batting order stands tall under Salman’s leadership, Pakistan have a strong chance of making a deep run in the tournament.
The tri-series in Sharjah will be an important test before the Asia Cup begins, allowing Pakistan to fine-tune their combinations. Fans eagerly await the blockbuster clash on September 14 against India, which will be one of the highlights of the cricketing calendar. Overall, Pakistan’s squad looks determined to fight for glory and add a third Asia Cup title to their history.
Q1: Who is captaining Pakistan in Asia Cup 2025?
Salman Ali Agha has been named the captain of Pakistan for the UAE Tri-Series and the Asia Cup 2025.
Q2: Is Babar Azam playing in Asia Cup 2025?
No, Babar Azam has not been included in Pakistan’s 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025.
Q3: Why is Mohammad Rizwan not part of the squad?
Mohammad Rizwan has also been left out, as the selectors opted to test younger options like Mohammad Haris and Saim Ayub.
Q4: Which young players are included in Pakistan’s squad?
The squad features promising names like Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, and Saim Ayub, who will play key roles in the campaign.
Q5: How many times has Pakistan won the Asia Cup?
Pakistan has won the Asia Cup twice – once in 2000 under Moin Khan and again in 2012 under Misbah-ul-Haq.
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