Pakistan’s left-handed opener, Fakhar Zaman, has addressed questions about his fitness after being left out of the national squad for the South Africa tour.
Currently playing for the Markhors in the ongoing Champions T20 Cup, Fakhar spoke about his fitness and chances of returning to the national team during an interview after his team’s opening match against the Lions.
Fakhar Confident About His Fitness
Fakhar responded to fans’ fitness concerns and assured them he was ready to play.
“I’m fit, and that’s why I’m playing. If there is a chance, I will play,” he said. Reflecting on his cricket journey, he added, “I started my career at the Champions Trophy, and I’m grateful for my performances there, which helped the team win. In this Champions Trophy, my focus is to perform well and help my team win.”
Also Read: Fakhar Zaman Has been Replaced By Injured Usman Qadir In Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Team
Recent Setbacks for Fakhar
Despite being a crucial player for Pakistan in recent years, Fakhar has faced challenges. He was dropped from Pakistan’s white-ball squads during tours to Australia and Zimbabwe and was excluded from the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) central contracts for the first time in eight years.
PCB’s Decision and Controversy
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi explained that Fakhar’s exclusion was primarily due to fitness issues, though a controversial social media post also contributed.
“There is an issue regarding his tweet, but it is not as important as his fitness,” Naqvi clarified. “He failed the fitness test, which is the main reason for his exclusion.”
Naqvi also addressed Fakhar’s tweet criticizing the decision to drop Babar Azam from the Test squad. He emphasized that players are not allowed to challenge internal choices publicly.
“We cannot tolerate players commenting on selection matters publicly. If the selection committee decides on a lineup, other players cannot protest on social media. This will not be allowed,” Naqvi stated.
Fakhar now aims to regain his spot through strong domestic cricket performances, focusing on fitness and form.
