Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 started with a disappointing 60-run defeat against New Zealand. While chasing a challenging 321-run target, the team was bowled out for 260 runs in 47.2 overs at the National Stadium in Karachi. Now, all eyes are on Pakistan vs India’s high-voltage clash on February 23 in Dubai. However, ahead of this crucial match, Pakistan has suffered a major setback – Fakhar Zaman’s injury.
Fakhar Zaman’s Injury Raises Concerns for Pakistan
During the opening match against New Zealand, Fakhar Zaman injured himself while fielding on the second ball of the match. Though he later came out to bat, he appeared uncomfortable, raising concerns about his fitness before the Pakistan vs India Champions Trophy 2025 showdown.
Mohammad Rizwan Gives a Big Update on Fakhar Zaman’s Fitness
After the match, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan addressed the press regarding Fakhar Zaman’s injury update. When asked about its seriousness, Rizwan admitted that the team was uncertain about the extent of the injury as the scan results were still awaited.
“He hasn’t received his results yet, so I’m not sure. He’s in pain,” Rizwan stated in the post-match press conference.
This uncertainty leaves Pakistan cricket fans eagerly awaiting confirmation on whether Fakhar Zaman will play against India.
Why Didn’t Fakhar Zaman Open Against New Zealand?
Interestingly, Fakhar Zaman did not open the innings against New Zealand, but his injury was not the primary reason. According to ICC playing conditions, a player who spends time off the field due to injury must wait for a certain period before resuming batting.
After being injured early in the first innings, Fakhar returned to the field only after the 33rd over. As per ICC rules, he had to wait an additional 25 minutes before batting. This led to Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel opening the innings instead.
Pakistan’s Opening Woes Continue in Champions Trophy 2025
Saud Shakeel, who was promoted to open the innings, failed to make an impact. He scored only 6 runs off 19 balls before getting dismissed. Fakhar Zaman, despite his discomfort, managed 24 runs in 41 balls with four boundaries before being dismissed by Michael Bracewell.
With Pakistan vs India’s upcoming match, concerns remain over Pakistan’s opening combination, especially if Fakhar Zaman’s fitness issues persist.
What Does Fakhar Zaman’s Injury Mean for Pakistan?
If Fakhar Zaman is ruled out of the India match, Pakistan might have to consider backup options like:
- Imam-ul-Haq (experienced but inconsistent in ICC tournaments)
- Mohammad Haris (aggressive but untested in big tournaments)
- Shan Masood (technically sound but slow in strike rate)
Pakistan’s middle-order stability also depends on Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Saud Shakeel, who will have to anchor the innings if Fakhar is unavailable.
Pakistan vs India: A High-Stakes Match in Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan vs India clash in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. Both teams will be eager to secure a crucial win to strengthen their semi-final chances.
For those looking for Pakistan vs India Champions Trophy 2025 tickets, online bookings are available on official ICC platforms. Fans can also check ESPN Cricinfo and Star Sports for Pakistan vs India live streaming options.
Key Match Details:
- Match: Pakistan vs India, Champions Trophy 2025
- Date: February 23, 2025
- Venue: Dubai International Stadium
- Live Streaming: Star Sports, Hotstar, ESPN Cricinfo
How Important is Fakhar Zaman for Pakistan’s Batting Lineup?
Fakhar Zaman has been a crucial part of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket success. He was the hero of the 2017 Champions Trophy final against India, scoring a brilliant century. His aggressive batting style helps Pakistan set strong foundations in high-pressure games.
His absence could shift extra responsibility onto Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who are already key players in Pakistan’s batting order.
Possible Pakistan Playing XI vs India (If Fakhar Zaman Misses Out)
- Babar Azam (C)
- Mohammad Rizwan (WK)
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Saud Shakeel
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Hasan Ali
- Naseem Shah
Pakistan’s bowling attack will have to compensate for any batting weaknesses if Fakhar is unavailable.
Where to Watch Pakistan vs India Champions Trophy 2025 Live?
Cricket fans can watch Pakistan vs India Champions Trophy 2025 live through various broadcasting platforms, including:
- TV Channels: Star Sports, PTV Sports, Sky Sports Cricket
- Live Streaming: Hotstar, SonyLIV, ESPN+
- Match Highlights: Available on YouTube and ESPN Cricinfo
Betting Odds and Predictions for Pakistan vs India
As the Pakistan vs India betting odds fluctuate, cricket analysts predict a tight contest. Pakistan will need to regain momentum after their New Zealand defeat, while India comes in with a strong squad.
For those interested in fantasy cricket, picking Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi could be smart choices.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s 60-run loss to New Zealand and Fakhar Zaman’s injury has created a challenging situation ahead of their match against India. If Fakhar is unavailable, Pakistan will need a solid backup plan and strong performances from their top-order batsmen.
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 points table already shaping up, Pakistan must bounce back against India to keep their semi-final hopes alive. Fans will eagerly await Pakistan’s playing XI announcement and Fakhar Zaman’s fitness update.
Can Pakistan overcome these hurdles and make a comeback? The answer will be revealed on February 23 in Dubai.
FAQs
Q1. What happened to Fakhar Zaman in the New Zealand match?
Ans: Fakhar Zaman injured himself while fielding and struggled to bat later.
Q2. Why didn’t Fakhar Zaman open the innings?
Ans: ICC rules required him to wait before batting due to his extended absence from the field.
Q3. Will Fakhar Zaman play against India?
Ans: His participation is uncertain until his scan results are available.
Q4. Where can I watch Pakistan vs India live?
Ans: The match will be broadcast on Star Sports, PTV Sports, and streaming platforms like Hotstar.
Q5. How can I buy tickets for Pakistan vs India?
Ans: Tickets are available through official ICC and authorized platforms.