Jason Gillespie on Pakistan’s Squad: Questions the Exclusion of Key Players from Champions Trophy
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- February 26, 2025
- 4:55 pm
- 39
- Sports
Jason Gillespie on Pakistan’s squad selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has raised serious concerns, as he questions the exclusion of key players Irfan Khan Niazi and Sufiyan Muqeem.
Jason Gillespie on Pakistan’s squad selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has sparked debate. The former head coach believes Pakistan made a big mistake by not selecting Irfan Khan Niazi and Sufiyan Muqeem.
Why Was Irfan Khan Niazi Left Out?
Jason Gillespie expressed shock on Pakistan’s squad choices at Irfan Khan Niazi’s omission. Niazi is known for his power-hitting and exceptional fielding. Many expected him to be in the squad after his strong performances in domestic cricket.
“Irfan Khan Niazi is one of the hardest hitters and cleanest strikers of the ball in Pakistan. He is also the best fielder in the country. I cannot believe that he was not picked for the Champions Trophy,” Gillespie stated.
Pakistan struggled to score big runs in the tournament. A batter like Niazi could have provided the middle order with much-needed aggression. His ability to clear the boundary with ease would have helped in high-pressure situations.
Sufiyan Muqeem: A Missed Opportunity?
Jason Gillespie on Pakistan’s squad also questioned the lack of a second specialist spinner. He believes that leaving out Sufiyan Muqeem was a major mistake.
“Sufiyan Muqeem is a very talented cricketer who, if given the right opportunities, can be a great servant for Pakistan cricket,” Gillespie said.
“Already in his short international career, he has shown that he has the skills and temperament to play at the highest level. For the selectors and team management to leave him out and go into the Champions Trophy with just one proper spinner was a glaring mistake,” he added.
Muqeem has already proven his worth at the highest level. His left-arm spin could have been crucial, especially in conditions favoring spinners. Pakistan’s bowling attack lacked variety, and an extra spinner might have made a difference.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Disaster
Pakistan entered the tournament as defending champions. However, their campaign ended in disappointment after consecutive losses against New Zealand and India.
In the first match, New Zealand put up a massive 320/5. Will Young and Tom Latham scored centuries, while Pakistan’s bowlers struggled. Naseem Shah took 2/63, but Haris Rauf was expensive, conceding 83 runs. Chasing 321, Pakistan was bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs. Khushdil Shah top-scored with 69, while Babar Azam made 64 off 90 balls.
The second match against India was a must-win, but Pakistan’s batting collapsed again. They managed only 241 runs, with Saud Shakeel scoring 62 off 76 balls. India chased down the target comfortably, winning by six wickets. Virat Kohli’s century and Kuldeep Yadav’s 3/40 sealed Pakistan’s fate.
With two losses, Pakistan’s qualification hopes depended on other results. However, New Zealand’s win over Bangladesh ended their campaign. Pakistan will now play their last group-stage match against Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.
