Tue Dec 10 13:28:59 UTC 2024: ## Out-of-Form Fakhar Zaman Addresses Fitness Concerns Amidst National Team Omission
**LAHORE, PAKISTAN –** Pakistani cricketer Fakhar Zaman, currently playing in the Champions T20 Cup, has addressed speculation surrounding his exclusion from the national team for the upcoming South Africa tour. Zaman, a key player in recent years, was dropped from the white-ball squads for tours of Australia and Zimbabwe, and also lost his central contract for the first time in eight years.
While Zaman maintains he is fit and ready to play, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that fitness issues, along with controversial social media comments, contributed to his omission. Naqvi specifically cited Zaman’s public criticism of the selection committee’s decision to drop Babar Azam from the Test squad as a contributing factor, although he emphasized that failing a fitness test was the primary reason. The PCB has made it clear that public criticism of internal selection decisions will not be tolerated.
Despite the setback, Zaman remains positive, stating, “I’m fit, and that’s why I’m playing. If there is a chance, I will play.” He is focusing on performing well in the Champions T20 Cup to help his team. The situation leaves Zaman’s future with the national team uncertain, pending further developments.
First Piper 