Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Due to Injury

In a major setback for Pakistan’s cricket team, opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a serious injury. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the news on Thursday.

Zaman sustained a muscular sprain while fielding during the opening over against New Zealand at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium on February 19. The injury occurred when he fell awkwardly, leading to his immediate withdrawal from the match.

The PCB initially stated that Zaman was undergoing medical assessment, with further updates to follow. However, in its latest statement, the board confirmed that he would not be traveling with the squad to Dubai for their next match.

“Fakhar Zaman’s injury is of a serious nature. He will not be able to participate in the remainder of the tournament,” the PCB announced.

Following this development, the PCB has approached the ICC Technical Committee for approval to name a replacement. Sources suggest that Imam-ul-Haq is a frontrunner to fill the vacant opening slot. Meanwhile, Zaman has been advised to report to the High Performance Centre in Lahore for rehabilitation.

His absence further complicates Pakistan’s campaign, especially after their 60-run loss to New Zealand in the tournament’s opening match. Chasing a challenging 321-run target, Pakistan was bowled out for 260 in the 48th over despite half-centuries from Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah.

The team is now gearing up for a crucial clash against arch-rivals India in Dubai on February 23. A victory in this high-stakes match is essential to keep their championship hopes alive.

Zaman’s injury disrupts Pakistan’s top-order strategy, as he is known for his aggressive batting approach. His absence is a significant blow to the team’s preparations for the upcoming encounters.

Excitement surrounding the tournament remains high, as Pakistan is hosting an ICC event for the first time in 29 years. The country last hosted an ICC event in 1996, when the ICC Cricket World Cup final took place at Gaddafi Stadium, where Sri Lanka defeated Australia by seven wickets.

The eight-team tournament is being played across multiple venues in Pakistan—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—as well as in Dubai, UAE. The competition began on February 19 and will conclude on March 9.