The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named left-handed batter Imam-ul-Haq as Fakhar Zaman’s replacement in the 2025 Champions Trophy squad. Zaman sustained an injury while fielding during Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday, February 19.
Although he initially left the field, he returned midway through the first innings. Due to ICC regulations, he was ineligible to open the batting and had to bat in the middle order. Struggling with his movement, he managed 24 runs off 41 balls during the chase.
Following the match, doubts arose over his availability for the next game against India. However, in a major setback for Pakistan, Zaman has been ruled out of the tournament entirely.
“The Pakistan Cricket Board have confirmed that the seasoned batter will miss the big ticket match owing to an oblique tear. The left-handed batter has been replaced by Imam-ul-Haq in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad,” ICC’s statement released on Thursday, February 20 read.
Fakhar Zaman took to social media to express his disappointment over his campaign being cut short due to the unfortunate injury. He stated:
“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,” Zaman wrote on social media.
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Pakistan are set to clash with India on Sunday, February 23, at the Dubai International Stadium. The Men in Green require a swift revival after their lackluster 60-run defeat to New Zealand in the opening match of the tournament.
Imam-ul-Haq last played an ODI for Pakistan during the 2023 World Cup
Imam-ul-Haq was once Pakistan’s preferred opener across all formats but lost his spot after a lackluster 2023 ODI World Cup campaign in India. His last ODI appearance came in Pakistan’s group-stage match against South Africa at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Later that year, he was also dropped from the Test squad but earned a recall for the recent home series against the West Indies. The 29-year-old showcased his form with a brilliant 98 in a warm-up match against South Africa while playing for Pakistan Shaheens.
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