The Pakistan cricket board (PCB) left out Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq from the central contracts list that was announced last week after much delay. While Zaman was blamed for having issues with his fitness, no reason was provided for Imam’s exclusion. However, after the loss in PAK vs AUS 1st ODI, Pakistan seemed to have learnt a lesson and are now eyeing to rope in the snubbed duo for PAK vs SA series in December.
Fakhar Zaman set to return in PAK vs SA ODIs
As per Cricket Pakistan, both Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq are set to be included in the white-ball squad for the series against South Africa. Fakhar has been in the eye of the storm ever since expressing his disapproval over dropping Babar Azam midway through the PAK vs ENG series. Zaman’s exclusion came as a surprise, given his his numbers in the 50-over format for Pakistan.
| Format | Mat | Runs | Ave | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIs | 82 | 3492 | 46.56 | 93.44 |
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At a press conference before the PAK vs AUS series, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi had admitted that Fakhar Zaman’s tweet was an issue. However, he cited a couple of fitness issues along with a pending show-cause notice to justify his exclusion from the squad. As for Imam-ul-Haq, he is yet to play an ODI after the World Cup in 2023.
| Format | Mat | Runs | Ave | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIs | 72 | 3138 | 48.27 | 82.55 |
Why Pakistan need Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq
Pakistan will count on the expertise of these two veterans as the prepare for Champions Trophy 2025. Their grueling white-ball campaign started off on a losing note after Australia clinched a nail-biting two-wicket victory in PAK vs AUS 1st ODI despite a valiant effort from Pakistan. Perhaps, this defeat has forced the Pakistan selection committee to reconsider their decision to drop Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq.
Pakistan will take on South Africa in a three-match ODI and T20I series from December 10. Prior to that tour, they face off against Australia and Zimbabwe in white-ball series as they prepare for CT 2025.
