Pakistan’s top-order batter, Fakhar Zaman, has addressed speculation surrounding his retirement following the team’s early exit from the 2025 Champions Trophy. The left-hander has firmly dismissed any rumors of stepping away from the game but acknowledged that he might need some time to make a comeback due to health concerns.
Zaman was ruled out of the tournament after Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand, having suffered a lower back injury while attempting to stop a boundary in the first over. Despite continuing to bat, the 34-year-old appeared visibly uncomfortable and struggled to a 24-run knock off 41 balls.
Speaking to PCB Digital (via ESPNcricinfo), Fakhar Zaman shared his thoughts on the situation:
“I heard about this [retirement rumours] a lot and even my friends messaged me about it, but there’s nothing to it. The ODI format is my favourite format. Yes with my thyroid, there was a thing that I could take more time getting back into it.”
“But I want to play T20s, ODIs, even Tests again. As far as my comeback is concerned, I spoke to the doctor and I can start playing cricket again within the month.”
“Strike rate is important”- Fakhar Zaman
With Pakistan facing difficulties in both Champions Trophy matches without him opening, the left-hander emphasized the importance of taking risks, particularly when the situation calls for it. In the same interview, he stated:
“The biggest thing is the situation. If you are chasing 150-200 runs you go in with a different mindset and if you are chasing 350, you have a different mindset. But strike rate does matter, especially these days.”
“And you have to play risky cricket. Cricket has become so fast-scoring, all teams come with that plan. If you take risks, you can score runs, although yes, you can also lose your wicket doing that.”
With the champions out, they will face Bangladesh in their final group match on Thursday.
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