Thu Feb 20 05:58:56 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Opener Fakhar Zaman Suffers Muscular Sprain, Misses Opening Slot Against New Zealand
**Karachi, Pakistan –** Pakistan’s opening batsman, Fakhar Zaman, suffered a muscular sprain during the Champions Trophy match against New Zealand on February 19th, forcing him to miss his scheduled opening slot. Zaman was initially slated to open the innings but was forced to leave the field in the first over after injuring himself while saving a boundary.
The injury occurred while fielding, resulting in Zaman being evaluated for a muscular sprain. He temporarily returned to the field after receiving treatment, but his absence from the opening batting position was due to a penalty incurred for leaving the field. According to Law 25.3, players who leave the field must serve a penalty before resuming play, a penalty which he would have been able to fulfill had New Zealand’s innings extended beyond 6:05 PST (6:35 PM IST). Due to the early finish, Saud Shakeel opened the innings instead.
Zaman eventually came to the crease at number four after Pakistan lost two early wickets. He reportedly experienced further discomfort while batting.
The Lahore Qalandars, Zaman’s franchise team, confirmed the injury on social media, stating that he was undergoing evaluation and further updates would be provided. His availability for Pakistan’s upcoming match against India on February 23rd remains uncertain. The injury adds a layer of concern for Pakistan as they prepare for a crucial clash against their arch-rivals.
First Piper 