Former Pakistan cricket captain and legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram has raised serious concerns about the selection of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. Akram while speaking at a franchise press conference was surprised by Ashraf’s inclusion saying it came “out of the blue.” He pointed out that Ashraf’s recent performances have been poor with a bowling average of 100 and a batting average of just 9 in his last 20 matches. Akram questioned the selectors’ decision saying “What else can I say now?”
He also criticized Pakistan’s approach to team selection noting that while other teams are relying more on spinners due to the subcontinent’s conditions Pakistan has only picked one specialist spinner Abrar Ahmed.
Akram isn’t the only one questioning these decisions. Other former cricketers including Tanveer Ahmed Kamran Akmal and Basit Ali have also raised concerns about Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah returning to the squad. They believe players like Sufyan Maqeem and bowling all-rounder Aamer Jamal deserved a chance instead.
Former captain and wicketkeeper Rashid Latif also slammed the selection committee calling their planning “incomplete.” He specifically pointed out the absence of young opener Saim Ayub who played a crucial role in Pakistan’s past victories. Latif believes Pakistan will struggle without a strong opening pair despite the return of Fakhar Zaman. He suggested that Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel might be forced to open instead.
Cricket analyst Sikander Bakht also agreed with these concerns adding his voice to the growing criticism of the squad selection.
Many experts are questioning why Ashraf and Shah were suddenly recalled when they haven’t played consistently at the international level. Ashraf last played an ODI against India in September 2023 during Pakistan’s disappointing Asia Cup campaign while Shah’s last appearance was in October 2023. Since then both have struggled to make an impact in domestic cricket.
With so many former players and analysts questioning Pakistan’s squad choices fans are left wondering—did the selectors make the right call or is Pakistan heading for trouble in the Champions Trophy?
