Fakhar Zaman's absence from India vs Pakistan clash ends Champions Trophy 2025 campaign

In a major setback for Pakistan's hopes in the Champions Trophy, Fakhar Zaman will be sidelined for their crucial match against India on Sunday. The star batsman sustained a knee injury while fielding in the first match against New Zealand and struggled with discomfort during his innings, scoring a slow 24 off 41 balls before being dismissed. Despite receiving treatment, Fakhar's condition has forced him to sit out of the upcoming game, leaving a big void in Pakistan's batting lineup.

During the post-match presentation ceremony, Rizwan wasn't sure of the extent of his injury and only informed that Fakhar was in pain. Earlier in the day, the PCB had issued an official release stating that the batter was being monitored for a muscle sprain. But as it turns out, the seriousness of Fakhar's injury is such that not only is he in doubt for the Bangladesh game next week, but his chances of taking any further part in the tournament are slim.

"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. Pakistan Zindabad," Fakhar tweeted.

Earlier, Fakhar was predicted to run the risk of missing the entire tournament. "Fakhar won't play the match against India, and hence, he would not be travelling to Dubai. As of now, it looks difficult that he would get fit for the last group stage match against Bangladesh as well. He is all but out of the tournament," a source in the know of things confirmed to Hindustan Times.

Fakhar's injury music to India's ears

The news must come as music to India's ears, as it was Fakhar, whose century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final denied Virat Kohli and Co. the title. Fakhar blasted 114 off 106 balls with 12 fours and three sixes to propel Pakistan to a daunting total of 338/4, a total India fell short of by 180 runs.

The setback is a double whammy for Pakistan, who are already without Saim Ayub in the tournament. Concerns lingered over Haris Rauf's fitness, too, but he turned up fit for the New Zealand opener.

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