Pakistan Team's vice-captain Salman Ali Agha has made it clear that his priority is winning the Champions Trophy 2025, even if it means losing to their biggest rivals, India. The high-octane India versus Pakistan match is set to take place in Dubai on February 23 but for Salman Ali Agha, the ultimate goal is lifting the trophy.
Salman Ali Agha on India vs Pakistan's Champions Trophy clash
Agha clearly said that while beating India would be a great achievement, it would be meaningless if they don't win the tournament. He believes that winning the Champions Trophy is a bigger accomplishment, even if it means losing to India along the way. Pakistan will kick off their campaign against New Zealand on February 19, followed by the clash with India on February 23 at the Dubai International Stadium. Mohammad Rizwan's brigade will then play their last league match against Bangladesh on February 27.
“I am excited for the Champions Trophy—Pakistan hosting an ICC event is special. As a Lahore native, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true. The Pakistan team has the potential to win,” Salman said PCB Podcast.
“I am excited for the Champions Trophy—Pakistan hosting an ICC event is special. As a Lahore native, lifting the trophy in my hometown would be a dream come true. The Pakistan team has the potential to win,” Salman said PCB Podcast.
The 31-year-old has been entrusted with a big responsibility as he will be Mohammad Rizwan's deputy in the upcoming eight-team tournament. When he was asked about his vice-captaincy post, he said he is really enjoying cricket and the new role given to him. He also stated that being vice-captaincy come with responsibility but also a sense of freedom.
“I am really enjoying cricket and the new role given to me. Being vice-captain comes with responsibility but also a sense of freedom. The victories in Australia and South Africa gave me a lot of confidence, and I always prepare thoroughly a day before the match,” he concluded.
Pakistan's Champions Trophy squad:
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vc), Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.