Fakhar Zaman pens emotional message after being replaced by Imam-ul-Haq in Pakistan's CT squad

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has officially been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after suffering an injury while fielding during the tournament opener. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named Fakhar's replacement to end speculations regarding the southpaw's participation.

The 34-year-old sustained a lower back injury while attempting to stop a boundary in the first over of New Zealand's innings. He walked off the field for treatment but returned midway through the first innings. However, the batter was not allowed to open the batting due to ICC regulations.

The left-handed batter came in at No. 4 while chasing a target of 321 runs. Zaman struggled while running between the wickets and managed only 24 runs off 41 balls before being dismissed by Michael Bracewell.

Representing Pakistan on the Biggest Stage Is an Honour - Fakhar Zaman

Following the contest, there were doubts about Fakhar Zaman's availability for the next match against India. The 34-year-old took to social media to express his emotions, hoping to make a strong comeback after recovering from his injury.

Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), Zaman shared his gratitude for representing Pakistan on the biggest stage and affirmed his support for the team from home. He acknowledged the setback but remained optimistic, stating that his return would be stronger.

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.… pic.twitter.com/MQKmOI4rQU

— Fakhar Zaman (@FakharZamanLive) February 20, 2025

"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. This is only just the beginning, the comeback will be stronger than the setback. Pakistan Zindabad," Fakhar Zaman wrote.

Fakhar Zaman made a memorable entry into international cricket with a match-winning century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India. He scored a crucial 114-run knock to help Pakistan secure an emphatic 180-run victory.

Imam-ul-Haq Replaces Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan Squad

The Pakistan Cricket Board has named Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement in the squad. The ICC confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday, February 20.

"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.

Imam-ul-Haq, who has played 72 ODIs, has amassed 3,138 runs at an average of 48.27, including nine centuries and 20 half-centuries. The left-handed batter last featured in an ODI during the 2023 World Cup match against South Africa at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Pakistan Set to Take on India in Must-Win Clash in Dubai on Sunday

Pakistan will take on India at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, February 23. After suffering a 60-run loss to New Zealand in their opening match, the team will be eager to bounce back and keep their Champions Trophy campaign alive.

Pakistan's updated squad: Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

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