Host Pakistan has recalled opening batter Fakhar Zaman and allrounder Faheem Ashraf for the Champions Trophy and ruled out Saim Ayub due to a broken ankle.

Veteran Fakhar Zaman is in the mix, having played a monumental role in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. He scored a maiden ODI ton (114 off 106 deliveries) at The Oval, London, as Pakistan beat India by 180 runs to claim the silverware. Also recalled are Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel.

The tournament will miss the presence of two former world champions, Sri Lanka and the West Indies, as they failed to qualify for this year's competition.

Despite the criticism, Pakistan's national selector Asad Shafiq defended the selection, highlighting Faheem's experience and his role as a fast-bowling all-rounder. Shafiq emphasised that Faheem’s inclusion provides the team with an option for a fast-bowling all-rounder, which is crucial for the squad’s balance.

From experienced campaigners making a comeback to a key run-scorer being sidelined by injury, there were multiple talking points from Pakistan's 15-member Champions Trophy squad.