Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign has faced a major setback as opening batter Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the tournament due to an oblique injury. In his place, the event technical committee of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 has approved left-handed batter Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement.
The 29-year-old Imam, who has played 72 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for Pakistan, was added to the squad after receiving official approval from the ICC committee.
The decision was confirmed in a statement by the Event Technical Committee, which includes Wasim Khan (ICC General Manager – Cricket), Sarah Edgar (ICC Senior Manager – Events), Usman Wahla (PCB Director – International Cricket Operations), and Shaun Pollock (Independent Representative).
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Fakhar Zaman’s Injury and Tournament Exit
Fakhar Zaman sustained his injury during Pakistan’s group-stage clash against New Zealand in Karachi. The incident occurred in the very first over of New Zealand’s innings when he fell awkwardly while fielding, immediately raising concerns about his fitness.
Fakhar Zaman’s Take
Although he attempted to return to the field after a brief medical assessment, he eventually walked off again, signaling the seriousness of his condition. Following further medical evaluation, it was confirmed that Fakhar would not be able to continue in the tournament.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Fakhar expressed his disappointment at missing out on the remainder of the Champions Trophy.
He wrote, “Representing Pakistan on the biggest stage is an honor and dream of every cricketer in this country. I have been privileged enough to represent Pakistan multiple times with pride. Unfortunately, I’m now out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025, but surely, Allah is the best planner.”
Imam-ul-Haq’s Return to the National Squad
Imam-ul-Haq, who last played an ODI for Pakistan during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 against South Africa, has now been called upon to fill Fakhar’s position.
The left-handed opener has an impressive record, having scored 3,138 runs in ODIs at an average of 48.27. His career includes nine centuries and 20 half-centuries, making him a valuable addition to Pakistan’s top order.
Imam was recently part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad that played a warm-up match against South Africa ahead of the Champions Trophy. His return to the national side is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s batting lineup as they prepare for crucial matches in the tournament.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Campaign
With Fakhar Zaman’s absence, Imam-ul-Haq now has a crucial role to play in helping Pakistan revive its campaign. His experience and form will be key as the team looks to bounce back in the upcoming matches and defend their Champions Trophy title successfully.
The defending champions, Pakistan, began their Champions Trophy 2025 journey with a disappointing 60-run loss against New Zealand. They will now shift their focus to their high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals India, scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 23.
Following the India clash, Pakistan will return to their home ground in Rawalpindi to face Bangladesh on February 27.