In the world of international cricket, where every boundary and wicket holds the dreams of a nation, the significance of family support is crucial. As Pakistan gears up to defend its Champions Trophy title at home after nearly three decades, the focus isn’t only on the cricketers but also on the influential partners supporting them. Often behind the scenes, these wives and girlfriends (WAGs) provide emotional strength and unwavering encouragement, becoming an essential part of the mental resilience cricket players rely on. Balancing the pressures of fame with personal relationships amid hectic schedules, these women exemplify strength and poise. Some prefer to remain out of the public eye, while others embrace the spotlight, creating a complex narrative of love, legacy, and loyalty. Let’s take a closer look at the lives of Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad partners, recognizing their invaluable role in the team’s journey.
### Mohammad Rizwan & Naeema Begum: The captain’s quiet strength
Mohammad Rizwan, the captain leading Pakistan, is not just known for his fierce determination on the cricket field; his wife, Naeema Begum, serves as his steady support off-field. They tied the knot in 2015, and Naeema has purposefully chosen a life away from public scrutiny, with no public photos or interviews. This desire for privacy reflects Rizwan’s own preferences, allowing him to fully concentrate on his roles as captain and wicketkeeper-batsman. Despite her discreet presence, teammates often speak of Naeema’s calming influence, especially during pivotal moments in Rizwan’s career, such as during Pakistan’s successful run in the 2021 T20 World Cup and their current Champions Trophy campaign.
### Haris Rauf & Muzna Masood Malik: A fusion of fashion and firepower
Pace bowler Haris Rauf shares his life with Muzna Masood Malik, a former fashion model whose elegance complements his fiery on-field performances. The couple married in 2022, blending athletic prowess with style and sophistication. Muzna is active on social media, offering insights into their lives filled with travel and fashion. While she enjoys more visibility than many cricket partners, she uses her platform to support Haris’s career, frequently seen cheering him on during matches. With Haris currently battling injuries as the tournament approaches, Muzna’s encouragement will be crucial as he aims to excel on home ground.
### Shaheen Afridi & Ansha Afridi: A union of cricketing dynasties
Shaheen Shah Afridi, a key player in Pakistan’s bowling squad, married Ansha Afridi in 2023, bringing together two celebrated cricket families. Ansha, the daughter of Pakistan cricket icon Shahid Afridi, possesses a deep understanding of the sport’s demands, providing Shaheen with valued insights and support. Though she generally maintains a private life, her appearances during high-profile tournaments like the 2023 World Cup reveal her pride in Shaheen’s accomplishments. As Shaheen leads Pakistan’s bowling line-up, Ansha’s experience in handling pressure will be invaluable, especially during intense matches against rivals like India.
### Private lives: Partners away from the spotlight
For several players in the squad, including Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, and Naseem Shah, personal relationships are closely guarded secrets. Babar, Pakistan’s former captain and star batsman, has never publicly acknowledged a partner, staying dedicated to his cricketing aspirations. Similarly, promising talents like Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, and Mohammad Hasnain choose to keep their personal lives private, consistent with a cultural norm of confidentiality. Even Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah, whose inclusion in the squad was hotly debated, shy away from media scrutiny off the field. Such discretion helps players shield their loved ones from the intense gaze of the public, allowing them to remain focused on their cricket performances.
