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Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out of Champions Trophy 2025 Due to Injury
Pakistan’s experienced opening batter, Fakhar Zaman, has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after suffering an oblique injury in the tournament opener against New Zealand. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that Imam-ul-Haq will replace him in the squad.
Fakhar Zaman’s Injury and Early Exit
How Did Fakhar Zaman Get Injured?
Zaman sustained the injury while fielding just two deliveries into the match against New Zealand. As Will Young drove a delivery from Shaheen Afridi through the covers, Zaman sprinted to stop the ball from reaching the boundary. While he successfully prevented a four, he suffered an oblique strain in the process.
Despite the setback, Zaman later returned to the field during the final phase of New Zealand’s innings. However, due to the extended time he spent off the field, he was unable to open the innings for Pakistan.
Fakhar Zaman’s Struggles with the Bat
When he finally came out to bat at No.4, Zaman struggled with his movement and running between the wickets. He managed to score 24 off 41 balls, forming a 47-run partnership with Babar Azam. However, both batters found it difficult to accelerate, which further compounded Pakistan’s struggles in a challenging chase.
Pakistan’s Performance and Upcoming Fixtures
Pakistan was set a target of 320 runs but ultimately fell 60 runs short, losing their opening game to New Zealand. The defending champions now face two crucial group-stage matches:
- Pakistan vs India – February 23, 2025
- Pakistan vs Bangladesh – February 27, 2025 (Rawalpindi)
With Zaman out of the tournament, Pakistan will have to rethink their batting strategy before taking on their arch-rivals India in what promises to be a high-intensity clash.
Imam-ul-Haq Replaces Fakhar Zaman
Imam’s Recent Form and Last ODI Appearance
Pakistan has called up Imam-ul-Haq as a replacement for Zaman. The 29-year-old batter has been out of the national squad since 2023 and last played an ODI during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Imam has an impressive ODI record, having scored 3,138 runs in 72 matches at an average of 48.27. His inclusion brings experience to Pakistan’s top order, and he will likely open the innings alongside Abdullah Shafique.
With Pakistan’s qualification hopes hanging in the balance, Imam’s performance in the next two group-stage matches will be crucial in determining their fate in the tournament.
Pakistan Cricket Team Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Fixtures & Schedule
