Pakistan's cricket team has faced a significant hurdle as they prepare for their highly anticipated match against arch-rivals India at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The squad has been forced to adjust after star opener Fakhar Zaman was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
Zaman, who was instrumental during Pakistan's previous triumph over India, sustained an oblique tear during the group-stage clash against New Zealand on February 19, 2025. The injury occurred just minutes after the start of New Zealand's innings, when Zaman awkwardly fell to the ground attempting to field. Though he initially tried to continue, he had to leave the field for medical assessment.
His absence looms large for Pakistan, who are already on shaky ground after starting their Champions Trophy campaign with a disappointing 60-run loss to New Zealand. Fakhar's contributions – highlighted by his memorable performance against India previously – will be sorely missed, especially as Pakistan grapples with consistency issues.
Imam-ul-Haq, now set to join the squad, has been selected as Zaman's replacement. The left-handed opener will arrive in Dubai after being released from his domestic commitments with PTV, where he recently celebrated his call-up by scoring 158 runs against OGDCL. Imam has been enthusiastic about his new opportunity, noting, "Imam-ul-Haq has been released by PTV and will travel to tomorrow after a brief stay in Lahore," shared the source.
With his history against India not particularly remarkable, Imam has played five ODIs against the men from blue, averaging just 12.80 with 65 runs under his belt. His only significant contribution was during the Asia Cup warm-up game against South Africa, where he made 94 runs, showcasing his potential.
Pakistan's lineup for the clash against India now appears likely to feature Imam opening alongside captain Babar Azam, who has faced criticism for his slow scoring rate. This combination may need to adapt dynamically during the match to cover the gap left by Zaman's absence. Saud Shakeel is expected to move down to middle order, reinforcing their batting depth.
The importance of the clash cannot be overstated. With Pakistan needing to secure victory to maintain their campaign and keep hopes alive for the finals, beating India has become not just about winning but also about restoring confidence within the team and the fanbase. The previous defeat to New Zealand has placed pressures on the squad to deliver.
This ICC Champions Trophy is particularly pivotal, with the hosts and defending champions urgently requiring wins to avoid early elimination. Each player must rise to the occasion, with Imam bringing his skills and recent form to the forefront of the team's ambitions.
The Pakistan squad now eyes their February 23 encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium with hope. Imam-ul-Haq has been entrusted with the significant responsibility to stand up against India's formidable bowling attack alongside Babar Azam. The stakes could not be higher for the Men in Green as they approach one of cricket's most fierce rivalries, hoping to rally back from initial setbacks.
Only time will tell if Imam can shoulder his responsibilities and help lead his team back on track solidly against their rival nation, as the cricketing world eagerly awaits this clash of titans.