The Pakistan Fakhar Zaman has been shining with confidence as he gears up to make an international return after being out of action for almost eight months ahead of Champions Trophy 2025.
Fakhar Zaman was part of Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 and is determined to reestablish himself on the international stage, particularly after missing out on a central contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the first time in eight years.
“What people may not realize is that I fell ill following the T20 World Cup,” said Fakhar Zaman. “My absence from the team was due to my health issues, but now I am 100% confident that I will take the field for Pakistan again,” said Zaman as he prepared for his stint with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 league held in the UAE.
The season opener has been involved in controversy after raising his voice over PCB resting Babar Azam for the final home tests against England.
In response, PCB has issued a notice to Fakhar Zaman regarding his social media comments in defense of Babar.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was displeased with Fakhar’s approach emphasizing that selection matters should not be publicly criticized by players, particularly when it stems from concerns over fitness.
“If one player isn’t being selected, others tweeting their displeasure is unacceptable,” said Naqvi. “The core issue with Fakhar was his inability to pass the fitness test.”
Despite Fakhar Zaman sidelines, Pakistan secured three ODI series wins in two months Australia, Zimbabwe and South Africa, all under the leadership of newly appointed captain Mohammad Rizwan.
Fakhar returned to competitve cricket impressing during the domestic champions Cup T20 tournament where he finished as the third-highest scorer with 303 runs from ten matches, boasting a strike rate of 132.31.
“My primary goal was to regain full fitness and make a mark in the Champions Trophy,” said Fakhar. “I consider myself fortunate to be fit right now. My career kicked off at the 2017 Champions Trophy, which was a memorable experience for me. I’m thrilled about the upcoming edition.”
Pakistan’s first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 will be against New Zealand on February 19 at National Stadium Karachi.
Also Read: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Jersey – All Teams New Look
