PAK vs NZ [WATCH]: Fakhar Zaman’s agonizing harm scare mars Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 opener

Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marketing campaign started with a gut-wrenching second as star opener Fakhar Zaman limped off the sector after simply balls within the event opener in opposition to New Zealand. The Nationwide Stadium in Karachi, full of roaring followers celebrating the return of an ICC occasion to Pakistan after practically three a long time, fell into shocked silence as Zaman clutched his proper knee and hobbled off the turf.

The incident occurred throughout Shaheen Shah Afridi’s first over, a second that encapsulated each brilliance and despair. After defending the opening supply, New Zealand’s Will Younger drove a full, large ball from Afridi via the covers. Zaman, stationed at mid-off, sprinted to intercept the racing ball, sliding to avoid wasting a boundary. However in his determined dive, he landed awkwardly, twisting his knee and instantly signalling for medical help.

A nightmare begin for the hosts: The agonizing chase of Fakhar Zaman

Zaman’s valiant effort to cease the ball exemplified his dedication, however it got here at a heavy value. Replays confirmed him grimacing as he parried the ball to a teammate earlier than collapsing past the boundary rope. Whereas preliminary experiences urged a decrease again pressure 14, on-air commentators speculated a couple of recurrence of a previous knee harm 6. The 34-year-old, who had solely lately returned to ODIs after a year-long absence resulting from health struggles, lower a distraught determine as he was escorted off the sector by physios, holding his waist and limping visibly.

Kamran Ghulam, Pakistan’s substitute fielder, changed Zaman, however the psychological blow lingered. The hosts, already reeling from the pre-tournament lack of first-choice opener Saim Ayub (fractured ankle) and Abdullah Shafique’s poor kind, now confronted the grim prospect of one other batting disaster.

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Harm woes hang-out Pakistan’s marketing campaign

Zaman’s harm epitomized Pakistan’s turbulent build-up to the Champions Trophy. His recall to the squad in January had been hailed as a big enhance after he rediscovered kind in home T20 leagues. Nonetheless, his fragile health—stemming from a knee harm that sidelined him since mid-2024—remained a priority.

The parallels to Ayub’s harm have been uncanny. Ayub, Pakistan’s rising star, had suffered a fractured ankle throughout a Take a look at in South Africa whereas chasing a boundary—a merciless twist that compelled him out of the event. With Zaman now within the highlight, Pakistan’s depth is below scrutiny. Babar Azam, initially slated to companion Zaman on the prime, might have to shoulder extra accountability, whereas Saud Shakeel emerges as a possible makeshift opener.

New Zealand’s regular opening amid chaos

Whereas Pakistan grappled with adversity, New Zealand capitalized on the early momentum. Younger, changing the concussed Rachin Ravindra (injured throughout a tri-series match), anchored the innings with a composed begin. Skipper Mitchell Santner acknowledged the problem of dew later within the day however praised his staff’s adaptability: “We’ve a job to do with the bat, and the boys are prepared.”

The Black Caps’ determination to incorporate Matt Henry bolstered their tempo assault, whereas Pakistan welcomed again Haris Rauf, recovered from a facet pressure. But, the highlight remained on Zaman’s absence—a subplot overshadowing the on-field contest.

What’s subsequent for Fakhar and Pakistan?

Regardless of the scare, there are glimmers of hope. Zaman was later seen strolling unaided close to the boundary, sparking optimism that the harm won’t be extreme. PCB officers, nevertheless, remained cautious, withholding updates till additional scans.

For Pakistan, the incident underscores the fragility of their title defence. With a high-stakes conflict in opposition to India looming in Dubai on February 23, the staff’s resilience might be examined. Zaman’s aggressive batting – evident from his match-winning 114 in opposition to India within the 2017 Champions Trophy remaining – is irreplaceable, however Pakistan’s squad depth, together with Ghulam and Tayyab Tahir, should rise to the event.

Additionally READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Head coaches and training employees for every collaborating staff