LAHORE: Host Pakis­tan’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 suffered another blow on Thursday, with explosive opener Fakhar Zaman ruled out of the tournament ahead of the high-octane clash against India.

The southpaw, who sprained a chest muscle early in the tournament opener against New Zealand in Karachi a day earlier, was replaced by another left-hander in Imam-ul-Haq, the Inter­national Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed following the Event Technical Committee’s approval.

Fakhar’s departure adds to Pakistan’s woes, with the side looking to rescue their chances of making it to the knockout stages in the must-win game against India in Dubai on Sunday, following a 60-run drubbing at the hands of New Zealand.

Fakhar couldn’t open in the match due to his absence from the field in the New Zealand innings. When he did come out to bat at number four, the 34-year-old showed signs of discomfort during his knock for 24 off 41.

“I have been privileged enough to represent Pakistan multiple times with pride,” he wrote on X. “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.”

Fakhar’s replacement Imam — who averages 48.27 in 72 games — is now set to make a comeback to Pakistan’s one-day line-up for the first time since he featured in the 2023 World Cup fixture against South Africa.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Thursday that it will send Imam to Dubai to join the national team on the first available flight.

Fakhar himself had staged a return to ODIs after 15 months due to the injury absence of Saim Ayub, who had cemented his place in the team with impressive performances against Australia and South Africa late last year.

Fined for over rate

Meanwhile, Pakistan were fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the opening match.

According to an ICC press release, Mohammad Rizwan’s side was ruled to be an over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time.

“Rizwan pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing,” said the ICC.

Published in Dawn, February 21st, 2025