In a major blow for Pakistan’s cricket team, opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out for the rest of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a serious injury.
According to media reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Thursday that Zaman, who suffered a muscular sprain during Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand on February 19, will not be able to continue in the tournament.
Zaman injured himself while fielding in the opening over, falling awkwardly. He was immediately pulled out of the match and later assessed by medical staff.
The PCB confirmed that Zaman would not be traveling with the squad to Dubai for their next match.
The injury leaves Pakistan without one of their key openers ahead of an important game against India on February 23.
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Who will replace Fakhar Zaman?
The southpaw opening batter, Imam-ul-Haq, will most likely to replace Zaman in the lineup.
This setback adds to Pakistan’s challenges after a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in their first game of the tournament.
Despite strong performances from Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah, Pakistan fell short of chasing a target of 321, being bowled out for 260 in the 48th over.
Zaman’s absence, known for his aggressive batting style, disrupts Pakistan’s top-order strategy. The team is now focused on securing a win against India to stay in contention for the championship title.
Pakistan is hosting the ICC event after 29 years, with matches taking place across three venues in Pakistan – Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi – along with Dubai, UAE.
Despite political tensions with India, which is playing its matches in Dubai, the event continues with heightened security in the host cities.
Source: Geo News
