Fakhar Zaman ruled out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan’s senior opening batter Fakhar Zaman ruled out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to an injury sustained during the tournament opener against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium on Wednesday. 

Fakhar suffered a muscle strain while fielding in the first over of New Zealand's innings. He fell awkwardly and had to leave the field for a medical check-up. Though he briefly returned, Fakhar was forced to walk off again, raising concerns about his fitness. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that Fakhar will not travel with the team to Dubai for the crucial February 23 encounter against India. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to make an official announcement regarding his status soon.

Fakhar was also unable to open the innings for Pakistan in the match due to the injury, as he has not spent minimum time on the field. 

Imam-ul-Haq, who was part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad for the Champions Trophy warm-up match against South Africa, is expected to replace Fakhar. Imam impressed in the warm-up match, scoring 98 runs, and will now likely open the batting for Pakistan for the remainder of the tournament.

Pakistan’s campaign began with a 60-run defeat to New Zealand. Chasing a target of 321, Pakistan were bowled out for 260, with Khushdil Shah top-scoring with 69 runs off 49 balls. Babar Azam also contributed with 64 runs from 90 deliveries. For New Zealand, Will Young and Tom Latham both struck centuries, while Glenn Phillips added a quickfire 61 runs off 39 balls. 

With Fakhar’s absence, Pakistan will face India in a must-win match on February 23, hoping to keep their title defense hopes alive.