Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out Of ICC Champions Trophy 2025
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KARACHI: Pakistan’s opening batter Fakhar Zaman is likely to be ruled out of the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after sustaining an injury during the tournament opener against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium on Wednesday.
Zaman suffered the injury scare while fielding in the first over of New Zealand’s innings. He landed awkwardly and was forced to leave the field for medical assessment. Although he briefly returned, he soon walked off again, raising concerns about his fitness.
As per the latest update from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Fakhar will not travel with the squad to Dubai for the crucial clash against India on February 23. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to make an official announcement on his status soon.
Imam-ul-Haq is likely to replace Fakhar for the remainder of the tournament. Imam, who was part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad for the warm-up match against South Africa, demonstrated good form by scoring 98 runs in that game.
Meanwhile, in the opening match, defending champions Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand. Chasing a challenging target of 321, they were bowled out for 260, with Khushdil Shah top-scoring with 69 off 49 balls, while Babar Azam contributed 64 off 90.
For New Zealand, Will Young and Tom Latham scored centuries, while Glenn Phillips’ quickfire 61 off 39 balls provided a crucial boost to their total.
Pakistan now faces a must-win encounter against arch-rivals India to keep their title defense hopes alive.
