Pakistan Aims to Defend Champions Trophy Title on Home Soil

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed believes that the team, led by Mohammad Rizwan, has a 'good chance' of defending their ICC Champions Trophy title in front of home fans.

Under Sarfaraz's leadership, Pakistan defeated India by 180 runs in the Champions Trophy final in 2017, claiming their first-ever title. According to Ahmed, key players from the title-winning side, including Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, will be pivotal in the team’s success.

Additionally, the strong performances of bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will be crucial. Sarfaraz also acknowledged the added pressure of playing in front of home crowds: 'Expectations will be high, but the fans will support the team. All eight teams have a chance to win,' he added, naming Pakistan, India, Australia, and Afghanistan as his semi-final favorites.