Islamabad, Dec 10: Fakhar Zaman, Pakistan’s left-handed opener, rejected claims about his fitness after the national squad omitted him from the upcoming all-format tour of South Africa.
Currently playing for Markhors in the ongoing Champions T20 Cup, Fakhar addressed the speculation during an interview on the sidelines of his team’s opening match against Lions.
The experienced batter emphasized his readiness to return to the national side if given the opportunity. “I’m fit, and that’s why I’m playing. If there’s a chance, I will play.
I began my career at the Champions Trophy, and I’m grateful that my performances helped us win matches there.
My focus for this Champions Trophy is the same—play well and win games,” Fakhar stated.
Fakhar’s absence from Pakistan’s squads for the recent tours of Australia and Zimbabwe had already sparked debate.
Last month, Aqib Javed, Pakistan’s interim white-ball head coach, cited fitness concerns when asked about Fakhar’s potential selection for the South Africa tour.
He explained, “Fakhar is a match-winner and has delivered for Pakistan over the years. He was dealing with some fitness problems.”
Reports later suggested that Fakhar was under consideration for the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa, but his name was missing from the final squad announcement.
In a statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Aqib Javed reiterated that Fakhar’s fitness and form were the key reasons for his exclusion. “Fakhar Zaman was not considered as he is yet to regain form and match fitness,” the PCB quoted Javed as saying.
Fakhar last represented Pakistan during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in June. Since then, he has been working to make his way back into the national team. While his omission from the South Africa tour remains a topic of discussion, Fakhar’s performances in the Champions T20 Cup could be crucial in securing his return to the national squad.
