Fakhar Zaman Dismisses Retirement Speculations After Champions Trophy Injury

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has refuted reports suggesting he is contemplating retirement following an injury that ruled him out of the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand. Fakhar, who made his return to international cricket during the ODI tri-nation series before the tournament, displayed glimpses of his aggressive form. However, his campaign was cut short due to an injury in the opening match against the Kiwis.

Following this setback, speculation about the 34-year-old's retirement spread across social media. Currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Fakhar denied these claims, affirming his commitment to making a comeback. "There is no truth in the retirement news. I will be fully fit and join the team soon," Fakhar told Geo News.

His injury occurred while attempting to stop a shot from New Zealand's Will Young, who drove a delivery from Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Fakhar sprinted to intercept and managed to flick the ball back to Babar Azam for the return throw. However, he was seen clutching his lower back in discomfort and signaled for a substitution. Assisted by the team physio, he left the field but later returned after New Zealand lost their second wicket in the ninth over.

Batting at number four, Fakhar struggled while running between the wickets. His innings ended at 24 off 41 balls when Michael Bracewell bowled him out. His dismissal was a significant setback for Pakistan in their chase of a challenging 321-run target. Although Khushdil Shah’s late knock of 69 from 49 balls provided some hope, Pakistan ultimately fell short by 60 runs.

On Sunday, Fakhar’s absence was felt in Pakistan’s clash against India in Dubai. Choosing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s lineup adopted a defensive approach and managed only 241 runs. India comfortably chased the target, with Virat Kohli smashing his 51st ODI century to secure a six-wicket victory.