Fakhar Zaman Injury Update | PAK vs NZ Champions Trophy 2025

Fakhar Zaman’s Injury Scare in PAK’s Champions Trophy Opener

Pakistan’s Champions Trophy title defence got off to a worrying start as key opener Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury in the opening over of their match against New Zealand. The experienced left-hander, who was instrumental in PAK’s 2017 Champions Trophy triumph, was forced off the field after appearing to strain a muscle while diving in the deep.

Zaman, known for his aggressive stroke play at the top of the order, was immediately assessed by the team physio. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) later issued a statement confirming that he was being examined for a muscular sprain, with further updates to be provided in due course.

His injury is a significant concern for PAK, especially given his past performances in ICC tournaments. In 2017, he was the star of the final against IND, smashing a sensational 114 off 106 balls, leading PAK to a historic 180-run victory.

With Fakhar Zaman unavailable at the start, Pakistan had to make an unexpected adjustment to their batting order. Saud Shakeel, stepping in as an opener for the first time in his career alongside Babar Azam, struggled to settle in unfamiliar conditions. His innings was cut short as he managed only six runs before being dismissed, putting Pakistan on the back foot early in the match. This early setback added pressure on the middle order, making Fakhar's absence even more significant. Pakistan now relies heavily on Babar Azam and the remaining batters to stabilize their innings and recover from the shaky start.

With Saud Shakeel departing early, the responsibility fell on Babar Azam and the incoming batter to rebuild Pakistan’s innings. Babar, known for his composure and elegant stroke play, looked to anchor the innings while keeping the scoreboard ticking. However, New Zealand’s bowlers capitalized on the early breakthrough, maintaining tight lines and extracting movement from the pitch. The absence of Fakhar Zaman disrupted Pakistan’s usual opening balance, exposing their middle order earlier than expected.

As the innings progressed, the pressure mounted, especially with the required acceleration in the middle overs. Fakhar’s delayed arrival meant that Pakistan had to tread carefully, ensuring they didn’t lose wickets in clusters before he could step in. The team’s strategy had to adapt on the fly, with an increased reliance on experienced players like Mohammad Rizwan and Shadab Khan to stabilize the innings. Pakistan’s ability to recover from this early setback would determine their chances of setting a competitive total or successfully chasing down the target.

PAK’s Injury Woes Continue

Pakistan’s preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025 have already been disrupted by injuries. Young opening batter Saim Ayub was ruled out ahead of the tournament after twisting his ankle during the Test series in SA. Now, with Zaman’s availability in doubt, the team management will have to reassess their strategy, particularly at the top of the order.

Pakistan, hosting their first ICC event since 1996, is aiming to replicate their 2017 success but will have to navigate these early hurdles. Their next match is a blockbuster clash against IND on February 23 in Dubai, and fans will be hoping for positive news regarding Zaman’s recovery.