WCL 2025
BIRMINGHAM: Star cricketer Shahid Afridi has expressed strong confidence that the Pakistan Champions team will go all the way this year and win the World Championship of Legends (WCL) title.
Speaking ahead of the tournament’s second edition, which is set to begin on Friday, 18 July at Birmingham’s Edgbaston Stadium, Afridi emphasized the team’s determination to overcome the final hurdle that eluded them last year.
This year, Pakistan Champions have a new captain, with all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez stepping into the leadership role, taking over from Younis Khan, who had led the team to the final in the inaugural edition.
Upon arriving at Edgbaston for a pre-match training session, Afridi told that the squad is well-balanced with a strong combination of both experienced veterans and promising young talent, giving them a solid chance to clinch the championship.
“We have a wonderful squad again. The team combination is very strong,” Afridi said. “Last year, we had a good first season, but this year we are hopeful of winning the tournament. This time, we have more young talent, and a new captain is leading them. Last year, Younis Khan did a great job; this year, we have Hafeez doing the honours. The aim is to have a new legendary cricketer from the past leading the Pakistan Champions squad.”
Pakistan Champions will kick off the tournament against England Champions on Friday, July 18, with a highly anticipated clash against their arch-rivals, India Champions, scheduled for Sunday, July 20. Afridi described the Pakistan-India matches as carrying a unique energy and excitement and expressed hope that the games would attract large crowds to the stadium.
Team owner Kamil Khan shared his ambition of securing the WCL title this year. He spoke about the renewed passion and motivation within the team to finish what they started last year after falling short in the final. Khan noted that the competition has grown significantly since the previous year, with increased fan engagement and a higher level of challenge from all participating teams.
Kamil Khan highlighted the advantage of having several all-rounders in the squad, which he believes will be beneficial given the English playing conditions. He also pointed out that the tournament provides a valuable platform for players who still have the potential to represent Pakistan internationally but have yet to be noticed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Khan mentioned players like Amir Yamin, who performed impressively in the first edition and could attract selectors’ attention with strong performances.
Head coach Arshad Khan added that most members of the squad are actively playing competitive cricket at various levels, ensuring they are fit and in good form.
He mentioned the presence of fresh talent such as Asif Ali, Hafeez, Umar Amin, and Rumman Raees, alongside seasoned players including Wahab Riaz, Sohail Tanvir, Sohaib Maqsood, and Amir Yamin. According to him, many players have recently featured in club or domestic cricket, maintaining their fitness and readiness.
Coach Arshad Khan expressed optimism about the team’s preparation, stating that the practice sessions before the first match would help address any weaknesses and enhance overall performance. With a balanced squad of youth and experience, the Pakistan Champions team is well poised to make a strong push for the WCL 2025 title.
