Pakistan has suffered a major setback in their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, as star batter Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the much-anticipated clash against India on Sunday. Mohammad Rizwan and his team will have to face their arch-rivals without the experienced left-hander, who sustained a knee injury while fielding against New Zealand in their tournament opener on Thursday. Although he returned to the field, Fakhar appeared visibly uncomfortable while batting, struggling through a sluggish 24 off 41 balls before being dismissed by Michael Bracewell. He also required on-field medical attention during his innings.
Following the match, Rizwan acknowledged Fakhar’s discomfort but could not provide details on the severity of the injury. Earlier in the day, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement confirming that he was being monitored for a muscle sprain. However, sources now indicate that not only will Fakhar miss the game against India, but his participation in the rest of the tournament is also highly unlikely.
Expressing his disappointment, Fakhar took to social media, stating, “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.”
According to a source quoted by Hindustan Times, Fakhar was initially feared to be ruled out for the entire tournament. “Fakhar won’t play the match against India, and hence, he would not be travelling to Dubai. As of now, it looks difficult that he would get fit for the last group stage match against Bangladesh as well. He is all but out of the tournament.”
India Gains Advantage from Fakhar’s Absence
Fakhar’s unavailability could work in India’s favor, as he was instrumental in Pakistan’s triumph over them in the 2017 Champions Trophy final. His explosive 114 off 106 balls, laced with 12 fours and three sixes, had powered Pakistan to 338/4— a total that proved insurmountable for India, who lost by 180 runs.
Adding to Pakistan’s woes, they are already without young opener Saim Ayub, while concerns had also been raised about Haris Rauf’s fitness. However, the pacer managed to play in the opening match against New Zealand, offering some relief to the Men in Green.