Pakistan's star opener Fakhar Zaman has been officially ruled out of the remainder of the Champions Trophy 2025 due to an injury sustained during tournament's opener against New Zealand. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced Fakhar Zaman's replacement, putting an end to any speculation about his continued participation in the tournament.
Zaman, injured his lower back while fielding during the first over of New Zealand's innings, attempting to prevent a boundary. Although he left the field for treatment and briefly returned, he was unable to open the batting due to ICC regulations. He eventually batted at number four in Pakistan's chase of 321, clearly struggling with his running between wickets and ultimately scoring only 24 runs off 41 balls before being dismissed.
Following the match, there was considerable uncertainty surrounding Zaman's availability for Pakistan's subsequent game against India. Meanwhile Fakhar Zaman took to X, to addresse the situation, expressing his disappointment and hope for a quick recovery and a strong return to the field.
"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 💪🏼
Pakistan Zindabad," Fakhar's post read.
Notably, Imam-ul-Haq has been announced as Zaman's replacement in Pakistan's squad for remainder of the Champions Trophy 2025.
Talking about Imam-ul-Haq's track record, he brings a wealth of ODI experience to the Pakistan squad, having played 72 matches and accumulated 3,138 runs at an impressive average of 48.27. His record includes nine centuries and 20 half-centuries, demonstrating his consistent performance at the international level. Imam's most recent ODI appearance was during the 2023 World Cup against South Africa, played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Pakistan's next challenge is against India at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, February 23. Coming off a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in their tournament opener, the Pakistani will look to bounce back in their next clash as one more loss will halt their run in the ongoing eight-team tournament.
Pakistan's updated squad for Champions Trophy:
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.