Why Fakhar Zaman Isn’t Playing Today’s 5th Match of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Against India?

The high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has generated immense buzz, but Pakistan’s explosive opener Fakhar Zaman is missing from today’s playing XI. While most fans are aware of his absence, this blog is for those looking for a detailed explanation of why Fakhar Zaman is not playing today against India.

Fakhar, known for his match-winning century against India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, was expected to play a crucial role in Pakistan’s campaign. However, an unfortunate injury has ruled him out, impacting Pakistan’s top-order strength. Let’s dive into the details.

Why Is Fakhar Zaman Not Playing Today?

1. Injury During Pakistan’s First Match Against New Zealand

Fakhar Zaman sustained an oblique injury while fielding in Pakistan’s opening game against New Zealand. Although he returned to bat later, his discomfort was evident as he managed only 24 runs off 41 balls before being dismissed.

 Key Injury Updates:

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed his injury, stating that Fakhar experienced severe discomfort while batting.

He was unable to recover in time, leading to his withdrawal from the entire tournament.

Imam-ul-Haq has been officially named as his replacement in the squad.

2. PCB’s Official Statement on Fakhar Zaman’s Absence

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released an official statement, confirming that Fakhar’s injury was serious enough to rule him out for the remainder of the Champions Trophy 2025.

 PCB Statement:

“Fakhar Zaman sustained an oblique injury during Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand. Following medical assessments, he has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament. Imam-ul-Haq has been approved as his replacement by the ICC Technical Committee.”

Who Replaces Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan’s Playing XI?

1. Imam-ul-Haq Named as Replacement

With Fakhar Zaman ruled out, Imam-ul-Haq has been drafted into the squad and is set to open the innings against India.

Why Imam-ul-Haq?

Steady and composed top-order batter

Averages 50+ in ODIs against top teams

Experience in ICC tournaments

While Imam brings stability, Pakistan will miss Fakhar’s aggressive stroke play and ability to take on bowlers in powerplays.

2. Pakistan’s Playing XI Without Fakhar Zaman

With Fakhar’s absence, Pakistan has made adjustments to their lineup to maintain balance.

Pakistan’s Playing XI Today:

Batters: Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)

All-rounders: Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah

Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

The absence of Fakhar Zaman’s attacking instincts in the top order means Pakistan might adopt a more cautious approach in the initial overs.

How Will Fakhar’s Absence Affect Pakistan?

1. Loss of an Aggressive Opener

Fakhar Zaman is known for his explosive batting style, and his absence means Pakistan:

Loses an attacking opener capable of dominating the powerplay.

Might struggle against India’s new-ball bowlers, especially Mohammed Shami.

Will rely heavily on Babar Azam and Rizwan to steady the innings.

2. Imam-ul-Haq Brings Stability but Not Firepower

While Imam is technically sound, he does not match Fakhar’s ability to take early risks. Pakistan’s run rate in the first 10 overs might be lower than usual, putting pressure on the middle order.

3. Increased Responsibility on Babar Azam

With Fakhar missing, Babar Azam will need to anchor the innings while also scoring at a quicker rate. If Imam and Babar fail to accelerate early on, Pakistan’s batting might struggle to put up a competitive total.

Can Pakistan Still Win Without Fakhar Zaman?

Pakistan has historically been unpredictable, and despit…

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