The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially replaced opener Fakhar Zaman with Imam-ul-Haq for the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The decision came after Fakhar Zaman sustained an injury during Pakistan’s first match against New Zealand, making him unfit to continue in the tournament.
Imam-ul-Haq to Replace Fakhar Zaman
Following Fakhar Zaman’s injury, the ICC Technical Committee approved PCB’s request to replace him with Imam-ul-Haq in the squad. Imam is set to take the first available flight to Dubai to join the national team ahead of their next match in the ICC Champions Trophy. His inclusion is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s opening lineup, which faced challenges after Fakhar’s absence.
Fakhar Zaman’s Injury & Exit from ICC Champions Trophy
During Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand, Fakhar Zaman suffered a knee injury while fielding. He had to leave the field twice due to pain but returned later to complete his fielding duties. Despite medical treatment, the injury worsened, ruling him out of the tournament.
Expressing his disappointment, Fakhar Zaman stated, “Representing Pakistan in a major event like the ICC Champions Trophy is a dream come true. I am proud to wear the green jersey, but unfortunately, I am now out of the tournament due to my injury.”
With Fakhar Zaman out, Pakistan had to adjust their opening combination in the match against New Zealand. Initially, Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel opened the innings. However, the inclusion of Imam-ul-Haq is expected to provide a solid left-handed opening option for the team.
Experts believe that Imam-ul-Haq’s arrival will bring stability to Pakistan’s batting lineup, and fans are hopeful that he will perform well in the crucial upcoming matches of the ICC Champions Trophy.