Pakistan all-rounder Salman Ali Agha addressed the media on Friday ahead of a busy cricket season, which includes the much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan and the West Indies Test series.
Salman expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and shared insights into various aspects of Pakistan cricket, including the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.
The all-rounder made it clear that the Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place in Pakistan is on the team’s radar, but he also emphasised the importance of maintaining focus on the current task at hand.
“We are ready for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. After playing a long season, there is another long season ahead, so the preparation is good. The Champions Trophy is on our minds, but before that, the West Indies series is ongoing,” said Salman.
As the defending champions of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Islamabad United, Salman’s franchise, will be under the spotlight in the upcoming season.
He acknowledged the pressure that comes with the title but remained optimistic about maintaining the team’s winning form.
“In the PSL, we will try to maintain the same performance as last year. Islamabad United is the defending champion, so there will be more pressure, but we will try to give a good performance and win. We know which players to pick for the PSL; the preparation is complete,” he said.
Agha also spoke warmly about Faheem Ashraf, who recently parted ways with the franchise.
Faheem has been a key player for Islamabad United in previous seasons.
“Faheem Ashraf was the backbone of Islamabad United; we cannot replace Faheem. In franchise cricket, players have to move on; I wish Faheem the best,” Salman expressed.
In a heartfelt segment, the 31-year-old updated fans on the status of young opening batter Saim Ayub, who is currently undergoing treatment in London after suffering a right ankle injury during the second Test against South Africa.
“The reports about Saim Ayub are that he will recover before the Champions Trophy. Please pray that he recovers soon,” he said.
He further commented on his bowling and the confidence the team has in his abilities.
“A lot of work was done on my bowling, and the results have been good. There is no hesitation in playing at any batting position,” he said.
Salman also shared his excitement about the Champions Trophy being held in Pakistan, stating that it would be a fantastic opportunity for fans to witness international stars live in action.
“In the international stadium, people get to see the players up close, and now fans will also be able to see their stars up close here, which is quite good,” he said.
The upcoming series against the Caribbean side is a significant milestone for Pakistan cricket, as it marks the first Test series on Pakistani soil featuring the West Indies since their visit in 2006.
While this is the first longer-format series in nearly two decades, the West Indies have toured Pakistan three times since 2018 for limited-overs fixtures.
The rivalry between Pakistan and the West Indies spans 54 Test matches, with Pakistan leading the head-to-head record with 21 wins.
The West Indies have 18 victories, while 15 matches ended in draws.
The last Test series between the two sides took place in 2021 in the Caribbean, ending in a 1-1 draw.
Pakistan Shaheens squad: Imam-ul-Haq (c), Ahmed Safi Abdullah, Ali Raza, Ali Zaryab, Hussain Talat, Kashif Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rameez Jnr, Mohammad Suleman, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Musa Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Rohail Nazir, and Saad Khan
West Indies Test squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (Captain), Alick Athanaze, Amir Jangoo, Anderson Phillip, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Joshua Da Silva (wicketkeeper), Jomel Warrican, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Keacy Carty, Kemar Roach, Kevin Sinclair, Mikyle Louis and Tevin Imlach.
