Pakistan’s white-ball captain, Mohammad Rizwan, has addressed Fakhar Zaman’s absence from the national team, stressing that the decision stemmed from health concerns rather than personal bias.
In a video released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Rizwan responded to rumors surrounding Zaman’s omission from the squad for the upcoming South Africa tour.
Health Issues at the Center
Rizwan explained that Fakhar, a key player for Pakistan, was sidelined due to illness. He dismissed suggestions that the decision was linked to fitness problems or internal disputes.
“There’s nothing personal about Fakhar Zaman’s exclusion,” Rizwan said. “From what I know, Fakhar has been unwell. It’s not a fitness issue; it’s a viral fever that has kept him out.”
He added that the team remains optimistic about Zaman’s return, saying, “We are all hopeful that Fakhar will rejoin the team soon.”
Fakhar Zaman Sets the Record Straight
Fakhar Zaman, currently representing the Markhors in the Champions T20 Cup, addressed the speculation surrounding his fitness. In a firm response, he stated that his participation in the tournament should serve as proof of his readiness.
“I’m fit, and that’s why I’m playing. If there is a chance, I will play,” Zaman said.
Despite his consistent contributions to Pakistan cricket, Zaman’s absence from recent white-ball squads on tours to Australia and Zimbabwe has raised questions.
Also Read: Fakhar Zaman Responds to Fitness Speculation Amid South Africa Tour Exclusion
PCB’s Position on Fakhar Zaman
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi shed more light on Zaman’s situation, revealing that fitness concerns and off-field controversies factored into the decisions.
Naqvi confirmed that Zaman failed the fitness test and also faced disciplinary scrutiny for publicly criticizing the selection committee’s decision to drop Babar Azam from the Test squad.
“There is an issue regarding his tweet, but it is not as important as his fitness,” Naqvi said during a press conference. “He is also facing a show-cause notice, but the main concern is his fitness test, which he failed to clear.”
This marks the first time in eight years that Zaman has been excluded from the PCB’s central contracts, reflecting the broader challenges he faces in his career.
