Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy with an oblique injury. Imam-ul-Haq has been named Fakhar Zaman’s replacement. Zaman picked up the injury during the Tournament opener between Pakistan and New Zealand on Wednesday in Karachi.
He picked up the injury while stopping a cover drive from Will Young off Shaheen Afridi and during the process he fell awkwardly, injuring himself. After feeling discomfort, he walked off the field.
He later returned to the field later but could not open the innings for Pakistan. However, he came to bat at no.4 but battled extreme pain while running between the wickets. He lost his wicket after scoring 24 off 41. Meanwhile, Pakistan lost the game by 60 runs after failing to chase 320. They were bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs.
"Representing Pakistan on the biggest stage is an honour 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. Grateful for the opportunity. I will be backing our boys in green from home. This is only just the beginning, the comeback will be stronger than the setback," Fakhar Zaman wrote on social media.