Shoaib Akhtar Urges PCB to Bring Back Fakhar Zaman

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has called for an end to the ongoing tensions between opening batter Fakhar Zaman and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Emphasizing the importance of unity for the betterment of Pakistan cricket, Akhtar offered advice to both sides during a recent appearance on a local news channel.

Shoaib Akhtar pointed fingers at internal politics at PCB when expressing his disappointment over Fakhar Zaman’s prolonged exclusion from the national squad. He said,

He [Fakhar Zaman] is a good, mature, and committed player, but you’ve unnecessarily benched him due to ego battles.

The 49-year-old added that Fakhar’s skills will eventually become indispensable for Pakistan. “Even if you don’t play him now, you will need him sooner or later—if not today, then tomorrow.”

While addressing Fakhar directly, Akhtar urged him to refrain from making public statements and instead focus on delivering strong performances on the field. “Fakhar also needs to understand one thing: he should stop giving such statements. Instead, he should perform and let his bat do the talking,” Akhtar advised.

Fakhar Zaman has been notably absent from Pakistan’s white-ball squads for some time now. His absence from the South Africa touring squad was chalked up to an “injury”.

“Fakhar Zaman was not considered as he is yet to regain form and match fitness,” Pakistan’s interim head coach Aqib Javed stated in a press release issued by the PCB.

However, Fakhar contradicted these claims during the ongoing Champions T20 Cup, asserting that he is fully fit and ready to play. When asked about his exclusion, Fakhar expressed optimism and referenced his successful past performances in the Champions Trophy. Fakhar said,

I’m fit, and that’s why I’m playing. If there is a chance, I will play. I started my career at the Champions Trophy and I’m thankful that my performances were good, and we won matches there. In this Champions Trophy, my only effort will be to play well and win games.

The public discord highlights an ongoing issue within Pakistan cricket regarding player selection and management.

With the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, Akhtar’s call for reconciliation underscores the need for harmony between players and management to build a stronger team for future challenges, especially after a dismal 2024.