Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Squad Announced: Salman Ali Agha to Lead in UAE
Introduction
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially announced the 17-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next month. In a surprising move, Salman Ali Agha has been appointed as captain for both the upcoming UAE Tri-Nation Series and the Asia Cup, signaling a new leadership direction for Pakistan cricket.
The announcement comes just weeks before Pakistan’s busy international schedule begins, with back-to-back fixtures in the UAE, including high-voltage clashes against arch-rivals India and the hosts UAE.
Pakistan Squad for Asia Cup 2025
The 17-member squad includes a balanced mix of experienced campaigners and emerging stars, reflecting PCB’s strategy to groom new talent while maintaining a strong core of proven performers.
Full Squad List:
- Captain: Salman Ali Agha
- Fakhar Zaman
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Hasan Ali
- Faheem Ashraf
- Saim Ayub
- Hasan Nawaz
- Mohammad Haris
- Shadab Khan
- Naseem Shah
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Imad Wasim
- Usama Mir
- Abrar Ahmed
- Abdullah Shafique
- Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Notable Inclusions and Omissions
Fakhar Zaman Returns
After overcoming his hamstring injury, explosive opener Fakhar Zaman makes his return to the squad. His ability to provide aggressive starts will be crucial in UAE’s batting-friendly conditions.
Shaheen Shah Afridi & Pace Battery
Pakistan’s fast-bowling spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead the pace attack, supported by Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Faheem Ashraf, and Naseem Shah. The formidable pace unit is expected to be Pakistan’s biggest weapon.
Rising Stars Get Their Chance
Emerging names like Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, and Mohammad Haris have been included, signaling PCB’s intent to inject fresh energy into the squad. Their performances will be closely watched as Pakistan builds towards the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Babar Azam & Rizwan Left Out
In a shocking move, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have not been selected. Head coach Mike Hesson hinted that Babar could make a return for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, but for now, the team will move forward under Salman Ali Agha’s leadership.
The duo last played in T20 internationals against South Africa in December 2024. Their absence creates a huge opportunity for younger players to step up on the big stage.
Pakistan’s Schedule Before and During Asia Cup 2025
UAE Tri-Nation Series
Before the Asia Cup, Pakistan will warm up with a tri-series against Afghanistan and UAE:
- August 29 – September 7, 2025
This will allow the team to fine-tune their combinations and test bench strength.
Asia Cup 2025 Fixtures (Pakistan)
- September 12 – Pakistan vs Oman (opening match)
- Group Stage Matches – Pakistan vs India, Pakistan vs UAE
- Knockout Stages – Semi-finals and Final (if qualified)
The Pakistan vs India Asia Cup 2025 clash is expected to be one of the most-watched cricket matches of the year, drawing millions of fans worldwide.
Pakistan’s Asia Cup History
Pakistan has played in 15 Asia Cup editions, lifting the trophy twice:
- 2000 – under Moin Khan
- 2012 – under Misbah-ul-Haq
Now, with a new-look squad under Salman Ali Agha, fans are eager to see whether Pakistan can clinch their third Asia Cup title in the UAE.
Expert Analysis: What This Squad Means for Pakistan Cricket
Leadership Transition
Appointing Salman Ali Agha as captain shows that PCB is testing new leadership ahead of bigger tournaments. His calm temperament and solid batting style may help stabilize the team in pressure situations.
A Balanced Mix
The squad strikes a balance between youthful energy and seasoned experience. While Fakhar, Shaheen, and Hasan bring proven match-winning ability, the youngsters will add unpredictability and flair.
A Bold Gamble
Leaving out Babar Azam and Rizwan is undoubtedly risky. But if the new generation performs well, it could mark the beginning of a new era in Pakistan cricket.
Fans’ Reactions and Expectations
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among fans:
- Many are excited about seeing Saim Ayub and Hasan Nawaz on a big stage.
- Others are surprised and disappointed at Babar Azam’s exclusion.
- Some believe this is Pakistan’s chance to experiment before the T20 World Cup cycle intensifies.
Regardless of opinions, the Asia Cup 2025 campaign will be closely followed across Pakistan and abroad.
Conclusion
With Salman Ali Agha leading a refreshed squad, Pakistan heads into the Asia Cup 2025 in UAE with high hopes and plenty of intrigue. The mix of experienced performers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Fakhar Zaman alongside emerging stars such as Saim Ayub and Hasan Nawaz sets the stage for an exciting campaign.
As Pakistan prepares for its opening match against Oman on September 12, cricket fans are eagerly waiting to see whether this team can rise to the challenge, overcome tough rivals like India, and bring home their third Asia Cup title.
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