Champions Trophy 2025: Fakhar Zaman breaks silence as PCB issues statement on Pakistan star's Injury Status

Pakistan's opening batter, Fakhar Zaman, is set to miss the Champions Trophy 2025 due to a chest muscle injury.

The injury occurred during Pakistan's opening match against New Zealand on Wednesday, February 19, when Zaman was hurt while fielding. Consequently, he did not take the field during New Zealand's innings and later batted at an unaccustomed number four position, scoring 24 runs off 41 balls before being dismissed.

Captain Mohammad Rizwan highlighted the impact of Zaman's injury on the team's performance, noting that his absence from the top order disrupted their batting strategy. Rizwan stated, "Having Fakhar Zaman (as opener) was crucial. You know how he bats in the powerplay."

The southpaw will not travel to Dubai for the crucial match against India and now the Pakistan Cricket Board has also confirmed his unavailability for the remainder of the tournament.

"Fakhar Zaman's injury is of a serious nature. He will not be able to play the remainder of the tournament," PCB was quoted by reports.

The player himself broke the silence and confirmed his injury on social media.

"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. 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 wrote on X.

Amid this, Mohammad Rizwan and co. will have a huge task against India. After losing to New Zealand in the first match, Pakistan will have to win against India and a defeat may mean exit from the tournament.