PCB announces Pakistan squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025; Muhammad Irfan Khan to lead

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have officially unveiled a 15-member Pakistan Shaheens squad for the upcoming Men’s Rising Stars Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in Qatar from November 14 to 23. The tournament will see eight teams in action, featuring some of Asia’s most promising young cricketers.

Middle-order batter Muhammad Irfan Khan, who has impressed with his consistent performances in domestic T20s and emerging tournaments, has been entrusted with the leadership role. Known for his calm temperament and solid stroke play, Irfan will look to guide the Shaheens in what promises to be a competitive event.

PCB selectors have blended youth and experience in the squad, ensuring a balance between emerging stars and players with prior international exposure. The side includes dynamic all-rounders, attacking batters, and wicket-taking bowlers — reflecting Pakistan’s focus on developing future international prospects.

The squad will have a preparatory training camp at the Hanif Muhammad High Performance Centre in Karachi from November 8 to 11 before departing for Qatar on November 12.

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The Pakistan Shaheens have been placed in Group B, which features India ‘A’, Oman, and UAE — making it one of the toughest pools in the competition. Group A includes Afghanistan ‘A’, Bangladesh ‘A’, Sri Lanka ‘A’, and Hong Kong.

The Shaheens will open their campaign against Oman on November 14, followed by a much-anticipated clash with India ‘A’ on November 16, which is expected to draw massive attention from fans across the subcontinent. Their final group-stage fixture will be against UAE on November 18.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals on November 21, while the final will be held on November 23. All matches will take place at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha.

The Rising Stars Asia Cup aims to provide a platform for emerging Asian cricketers to showcase their skills at a higher level. For Pakistan, this tournament serves as an opportunity to groom the next generation of national team players.

Muhammad Irfan Khan (captain), Ahmed Daniyal, Arafat Minhas, Maaz Sadaqat, Mohammad Faiq, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Mohammad Naeem, Mohammad Salman, Mohammad Shahzad, Mubasir Khan, Saad Masood, Shahid Aziz, Sufiyan Moqim, Ubaid Shah, and Yasir Khan.

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