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BIRMINGHAM: Star all-rounder Shahid Afridi is confident that Pakistan Champions are well-equipped to go all the way in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, with the second edition of the tournament set to begin on July 18 at Edgbaston.
Pakistan Champions, who finished runners-up in the inaugural edition, will begin their 2025 campaign against England Champions in the tournament opener on Friday.
This time, Mohammad Hafeez takes over the reins from Younis Khan, who led the side to the final last year.
Speaking to a local channel during a training session at Edgbaston, Shahid Afridi praised the squad’s depth and balance and expressed optimism about their chances this season.
“We have a wonderful squad again, a very strong combination. We had a good first season, but this year we are hopeful of winning the tournament,” Afridi said.
He also lauded the presence of relatively younger players and the idea of rotating leadership roles among former greats.
“This time, there’s more young blood, and a new captain is at the helm. Younis Khan did a great job last year, and now Hafeez will be leading the side,” he added.
The marquee Pakistan vs India clash is slated for July 20, also at Edgbaston. Shahid Afridi acknowledged that the high-stakes rivalry remains the tournament’s biggest attraction.
“Every match is important, but Pakistan vs India always carries that special energy. I’m hopeful more fans will flock to the stadiums to watch us in action,” he said.
Pakistan Champions squad for WCL 2025
Mohammad Hafeez (c), Shoaib Malik, Sohaib Maqsood, Umar Amin, Sharjeel Khan, Sarfaraz Ahmed (WK), Shahid Afridi, Asif Ali, Aamer Yamin, Wahab Riaz, Rumman Raees, Sohail Tanvir, Sohail Khan.
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