Pakistan's ODI Squad: Form-Based Playing XI Selection
By: Fahad Younis - March 28, 2025, 11:51 a.m.
After the humiliating T20I series loss against New Zealand, Pakistan now turns to the ODI format in hopes of redemption. The wounds from the 4-1 thrashing are still fresh, and the team has a point to prove. With a fresh opportunity to bounce back, I have gone ahead and selected the playing XI based purely on recent form and stats. Every player chosen must justify their spot, and there’s no room for reputation-based selections this time. Using the 2024/25 season data, with career List A stats as a fallback for those with limited matches, here’s the most balanced and statistically justified XI.
1. Imam-Ul-Haq
Career List A Stats: 113 Matches, 4639 Runs, 44.6 Avg, 80.97 SR
Imam’s consistency makes him an obvious choice at the top. His List A average of nearly 45 is invaluable in anchoring the innings. While he’s been out of the national setup, his reliable performances at the domestic level ensure he remains a dependable option, especially in the absence of Saim and Fakhar due to injuries.
2. Abdullah Shafique
Season Stats: 9 Matches, 196 Runs, 28 Avg, 71.01 SR
While not in the best form, Shafique’s talent cannot be overlooked. His technique and composure are well-regarded. The lack of other strong opening options means he gets another shot to prove his worth. It's time for him to step up and silence the critics.
3. Babar Azam
Season Stats: 11 Matches, 377 Runs, 41.88 Avg, 76.93 SR
Pakistan’s most accomplished batter, Babar remains the backbone of the batting lineup. While his strike rate is under scrutiny, his ability to stabilise innings is unmatched. Despite the collective failure in the Champions Trophy, Babar’s form was one of the few positives. Pakistan will once again rely on him to anchor the innings.
4. Mohammad Rizwan — Captain
Season Stats: 14 Matches, 484 Runs, 53.77 Avg, 76.46 SR
Rizwan’s solid performances and leadership ensure his place. His experience and ability to adapt will be essential, especially in high-pressure situations. As captain and wicketkeeper, he has the added responsibility of rallying the team and making sure they don't crumble under pressure.
5. Salman Ali Agha
Season Stats: 14 Matches, 489 Runs, 48.9 Avg, 99.79 SR; 66.4 Overs, 12 Wickets, 28.75 Avg
Arguably Pakistan’s most in-form allrounder. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a must-have. His standout performances in recent months have turned heads, and this ODI series is a golden opportunity for him to cement his place as a reliable all-round option.
6. Khushdil Shah
Season Stats: 5 Matches, 129 Runs, 32.25 Avg, 104.03 SR; 36.3 Overs, 2 Wickets, 105.00 Avg
Despite poor bowling stats, Khushdil’s power-hitting ability and middle-order stability earn him a spot. Pakistan's fragile lower-middle order needs someone with the ability to accelerate, and Khushdil's strike rate of over 100 makes him a valuable asset.
7. Tayyab Tahir
Season Stats: 8 Matches, 134 Runs, 26.8 Avg, 117.54 SR
Tayyab Tahir has shown glimpses of promise with his aggressive intent. While his average might not be groundbreaking, his high strike rate makes him an ideal middle-order aggressor. If he can convert his starts, he could provide Pakistan with much-needed impetus in the later stages of the innings.
8. Mohammad Wasim
Season Stats: 4 Matches, 10 Wickets, 21.5 Avg, 5.63 Econ
Pakistan's most effective pacer in recent outings. His wicket-taking ability and solid economy rate make him essential. It’s baffling how he continues to be overlooked in favour of others. Wasim deserves this opportunity and has the potential to be Pakistan’s standout bowler in the series.
9. Sufiyan Muqeem
Career List A Stats: 7 Matches, 14 Wickets, 25.35 Avg, 5.31 Econ
Sufiyan’s impressive bowling figures justify giving him a chance. He could add variety to the attack with his left-arm spin. The glimpses of brilliance he showed in the final T20I match should be rewarded with a proper run in the ODIs.
10. Abrar Ahmed
Season Stats: 9 Matches, 15 Wickets, 26.93 Avg, 4.69 Econ
The most consistent spinner this season. Abrar’s control and wicket-taking ability will be crucial, especially in the middle overs. He has been a rare bright spot in Pakistan’s bowling attack and will play a vital role.
11. Akif Javed
Career List A Stats: 30 Matches, 33 Wickets, 36 Avg, 6.07 Econ
Akif seems to have a better T20 record than List A, but he has never played an ODI for the national team. It's time to give the youngster a proper chance. Pakistan needs to test new pacers, and Akif could be a key find if managed correctly.
Key Omissions
Irfan Khan: A poor batting average of 9.6 this season means he misses out.
Mohammad Ali and Naseem Shah: Despite their experience, their recent performances don’t inspire confidence.
Conclusion
This XI offers a well-rounded mix of stability, power-hitting, and wicket-taking options. With experienced leaders like Rizwan and Babar, along with promising talents like Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Wasim, this lineup is Pakistan’s best shot at a competitive showing. But the lingering question remains — will this team rise to the occasion, or are we in for another painful series? The time for excuses is over. Pakistan needs to show character, and anything less than a fighting performance will only deepen the frustrations of fans. It's make or break time.
Fahad Younis
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I'm not a cricket expert, nor am I a professional writer—I’m just a passionate fan of Pakistan cricket. From thrilling victories to heartbreaking losses, I follow the team through every high and low. Stumps and Dugout is my space to share thoughts, reactions, and analysis from a fan’s perspective. Whether it’s squad selections, match performances, or just the unpredictable nature of Pakistan cricket, I’m here to talk about it all.
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