Fakhar Zaman is confident about his return to the Pakistan cricket team, stating that he is “100% certain” he will play again, with his sights set on the 2025 Champions Trophy. The tournament, beginning February 19, will be hosted in Pakistan and Dubai. Fakhar revealed to the Vipers Voices podcast that an illness after the 2024 T20 World Cup had kept him out of the team, but he has since fully recovered and is preparing for upcoming series.
The 34-year-old, who last played international cricket during the 2024 T20 World Cup, had a memorable outing in the 2017 Champions Trophy, where his 114 in the final against India led Pakistan to victory. Fakhar emphasized that he had been focusing on the Champions Trophy, intentionally sitting out tours to Australia and South Africa to ensure his full fitness for the event. He expressed gratitude for his recovery and discussed his readiness to represent Pakistan in the competition.
Fakhar also praised young opener Saim Ayub, highlighting his impressive ODI form, which an ankle injury now threatens ahead of the Champions Trophy. Despite his own aspirations to open the batting, Fakhar acknowledged the strength of Pakistan’s top order, with Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Ayub already established as key openers. However, he remains willing to bat at number four or five if needed, putting the team’s needs first.
In addition to his international comeback plans, Fakhar is gearing up for his debut in the ILT20, where he will represent the Desert Vipers, starting January 11.
Leave a Reply