ISLAMABAD: Recently media reported that Pakistan’s opening batsman Fakhar Zaman is considering retirement from One-Day International (ODI) cricket following the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
However, speaking to a local news channel, Fakhar dismissed the claims as “baseless” and confirmed his commitment to returning to the national team once he fully recovers from injury.
Media reports
Several media outlets, citing unnamed sources, reported that Fakhar Zaman was considering retirement from ODI cricket following Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
These reports emerged after Fakhar sustained an injury in Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand on February 19, which ruled him out of the tournament.
Verification
Responding to the speculation, Fakhar Zaman categorically denied any plans to retire. “There is no truth in the retirement news. I will be fully fit and join the team soon,” he told a Pakistani news channel.
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His statement directly contradicts the claims made by certain media reports.
Fakhar, 36, was injured while fielding against New Zealand in Karachi. An awkward fall during the opening over forced him off the field for medical evaluation.
Although he briefly returned, concerns about his fitness grew when he had to exit again. Subsequent medical scans confirmed an oblique tear, leading to his withdrawal from the tournament just before Pakistan’s crucial match against India on February 23.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) later announced Imam-ul-Haq as his replacement.
Representing Pakistan on the biggest stage is an honour and dream of every cricketer in this country. I have been privileged enough to represent Pakistan multiple times with pride. Unfortunately I’m now out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 but surely Allah is the best planner.… pic.twitter.com/MQKmOI4rQU
— Fakhar Zaman (@FakharZamanLive) February 20, 2025
Following his withdrawal, unverified reports surfaced suggesting Fakhar was contemplating stepping away from ODI cricket.
However, sources close to the player, as well as his own statement, confirm that these reports are inaccurate. Fakhar is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and remains focused on regaining full fitness.
Fakhar will rejoin Pakistan’s squad once he has fully recovered from his injury.
