Pakistan’s left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman has rejected claims about his fitness following his omission from the national squad for the upcoming all-format tour of South Africa.
Currently representing Markhors in the ongoing Champions T20 Cup, Fakhar Zaman addressed the speculation during an interview on the sidelines of his team’s opening match against Lions.
The seasoned batter affirmed his readiness to return to the national side if given the opportunity.
“I’m fit, and that’s why I’m playing. If there’s a chance, I will play. I began my career at the Champions Trophy, and I’m grateful my performances helped us win matches there. My focus for this Champions Trophy is the same—play well and win games,” Fakhar Zaman stated.
Fakhar’s absence from Pakistan’s squads for the recently concluded tours of Australia and Zimbabwe had already sparked debate.
Last month, Aqib Javed, Pakistan’s interim white-ball head coach, cited fitness concerns when questioned about Fakhar’s potential selection for the South Africa tour. He explained
Fakhar is a match-winner and has delivered for Pakistan over the years. He was dealing with some fitness problems.
Reports later suggested that Fakhar was under consideration for the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa. However, his name was absent from the final squad announcement.
In a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Aqib Javed reiterated that Fakhar’s fitness and form were the primary reasons behind his exclusion.
“Fakhar Zaman was not considered as he is yet to regain form and match fitness,” the PCB quoted Javed as saying.
Fakhar last donned the Pakistan jersey during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 in June. Since then, he has been working to make his way back into the national setup.
While his omission from the South Africa tour remains a talking point, Fakhar’s performances in the Champions T20 Cup could play a crucial role in paving his way back into the green shirts.
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