“Today, Nepotism Didn’t Just Break Records but Inherited Them”
In a move that has left cricket fans and critics alike in disbelief, 31-year-old Rana Faheem Ashraf has been included in Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite averaging 10 with the bat and 47 with the ball, Ashraf’s sudden inclusion has raised questions about the meritocracy in the selection process.
“A 31-year-old who’s averaging 10 with the bat and 47 with the ball is included in the CT squad out of nowhere, literally no where.”
The selection has been described as the “murder of merit in front of our eyes,” with many pointing out that Ashraf’s performance does not justify his place in the team. Critics argue that talent and performance seem to have taken a backseat, with relations playing a crucial role in the decision-making process.
“You just need relations here.”
The inclusion of Ashraf has sparked a debate on social media, with fans and journalists alike questioning the transparency and fairness of the selection process. Many have called for accountability and a thorough review of the selection criteria to ensure that merit remains the primary factor in forming national teams.
“Can someone ask questions from them? No. All the journalists are on the payroll of this Mafia.”
The controversy surrounding Ashraf’s selection highlights the ongoing struggle between merit and nepotism in sports, raising concerns about the future of fair play and equal opportunities for all players.
Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE from February 19 to March 9, 2025. Here is the squad:
Batters:
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Kamran Ghulam
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir
All-rounders:
- Faheem Ashraf
- Khushdil Shah
- Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain)
Wicketkeeper-batters:
- Mohammad Rizwan (captain)
- Usman Khan
Spinners:
- Abrar Ahmed
Fast bowlers:
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
Notable Inclusions:
- Fakhar Zaman returns to the squad after recovering from injury and illness. His aggressive approach and match-winning capabilities are expected to boost the top order.
- Salman Ali Agha has been named vice-captain.
- Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah are recalled to provide all-round options.
Notable Omissions:
- Saim Ayub has been ruled out due to an ankle injury.
- Abdullah Shafique also missed the cut.
The squad will play in a tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand in the lead-up to the Champions Trophy. The tournament opener will see Pakistan face New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, followed by a highly anticipated match against India in Dubai on February 23.
