Pakistan’s opening batter, Fakhar Zaman, is expected to miss the rest of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to an injury sustained during the tournament’s opening match against New Zealand on Wednesday at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury while fielding in the first over of New Zealand’s innings. Zaman fell awkwardly and was immediately removed for medical evaluation. Although he briefly returned to bat, discomfort forced him off again. Consequently, his condition has sparked doubts about his tournament participation.
The PCB confirmed that Zaman will not join the team for their next match against India in Dubai on February 23, 2025. “Fakhar Zaman is not travelling with the side to Dubai. The ICC will provide further updates soon,” the PCB stated. However, multiple media outlets report that the star batter’s injury may rule him out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Imam-ul-Haq Set to Replace Zaman
Sources suggest that Imam-ul-Haq could step in for Fakhar Zaman. Imam recently impressed with a 98-run knock for Pakistan Shaheens in a warm-up match against South Africa. His strong form makes him a likely candidate to fill the gap left by Zaman’s injury.
Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman will miss the crucial Pakistan-India Champions Trophy match in Dubai after sustaining an injury while fielding against New Zealand.
The ICC will announce further updates, with Pakistan set to face India on Sunday.#ChampionsTrophy #PAKvIND pic.twitter.com/G59kLctuOa
— British Pakistani Index (@PakistaniIndex) February 20, 2025Meanwhile, New Zealand dominated Pakistan in the Champions Trophy opener. Their batsmen set a challenging 321-run target, followed by a disciplined bowling performance. Pakistan, in contrast, struggled across all departments. They were bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs, losing by 60 runs in front of a packed crowd, including President Asif Ali Zardari.
Pakistan’s chase got off to a shaky start. With Fakhar Zaman delayed by 20 minutes due to a back spasm from fielding, Saud Shakeel opened alongside Babar Azam. However, New Zealand’s Will O’Rourke struck early, dismissing Shakeel for 6. Captain Mohammad Rizwan followed soon after, scoring just 3, thanks to a stunning catch by Glenn Phillips. Pakistan slumped to 22-2 in 10 overs.
Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman attempted a recovery, adding 47 runs for the fourth wicket. But hampered by his injury, Zaman managed only 24 runs off 41 balls before Michael Bracewell bowled him. His slow scoring and visible discomfort underscored the impact of the Fakhar Zaman injury on Pakistan’s campaign.
With Fakhar Zaman sidelined Pakistan faces a tough road ahead in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The team must regroup quickly for their clash with India. Imam-ul-Haq’s potential inclusion could provide a boost, but replacing Zaman’s experience at the top order won’t be easy. Stay tuned for official updates from the PCB and ICC.
