Thu Feb 20 17:40:39 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan’s Zaman Ruled Out of Champions Trophy, Imam-ul-Haq to Replace

**London, [Date]** – A major blow has struck the Pakistan cricket team ahead of their crucial match against India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the tournament due to an oblique injury sustained during their opening match against New Zealand.

Zaman, who scored a crucial 114 in Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy final victory over India, suffered the injury while fielding just two balls into the game. Despite returning to bat, he struggled with his movement and scored 24 runs before being dismissed. The injury, described as a strain or tear in his abdominal muscles, effectively ends his participation in the tournament.

“Representing Pakistan is an honour,” Zaman said in a statement. “Unfortunately, I’m out of the Champions Trophy, but I’ll be supporting the team from home. The comeback will be stronger.”

His replacement will be fellow left-handed opener Imam-ul-Haq. The news comes as a significant setback for Pakistan, who lost their opening match by 60 runs and now face their arch-rivals India on Sunday. Zaman’s absence leaves a considerable gap in the batting order, given his strong record against India – 234 runs in six ODIs at an average of 46.80. The Pakistani team will be hoping Imam-ul-Haq can fill the void and provide a solid start against their fierce rivals.

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