'Only one spinner'; Here's how social media is reacting to Pakistan's squad

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy on Friday, surprising not only Pakistani but also Indian cricket fans.

Pakistan has been performing well at home by taking advantage of spin-friendly conditions. However, the squad for the Champions Trophy includes only one specialist spinner, Abrar Ahmed. Salman Ali Agha and Khushdil Shah have been included as part-time spinners.

Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf have returned to the squad despite not being part of the team for a long time. Meanwhile, some players who travelled to Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa have been left out of the team.

Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel have replaced Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufiyan Muqeem in the squad.

Khushdil Shah last played an ODI for Pakistan in 2022. Usman Khan, who has never played an ODI for Pakistan, has also been included in the squad.

An Indian sports journalist expressed concern on social media about Pakistan's squad, highlighting that the team is going ahead with only one specialist spinner.

On the Sports Tak platform, a journalist analyzed the squad and questioned, "Why is Pakistan relying on just one regular spinner, Abrar Ahmed? While Agha Salman and Khushdil Shah can also bowl, they are not specialist spinners. Spinners usually play a key role on pitches in Dubai and Pakistan."

He also pointed out, "Several players in the squad are returning after a long time away from ODI cricket. Usman Khan's recent performances have not been impressive." Overall, he found Pakistan's squad selection confusing.

Social media users have also raised concerns over the squad for the mega event.

Here's how social media is reacting: