Pakistan’s batting lineup may soon be bolstered by the return of Fakhar Zaman, with the left-hander expected to recover in time for next month’s crucial Asia Cup in the UAE.
A source close to the 34-year-old told that Fakhar’s hamstring injury, which he sustained during the second T20I against West Indies in Lauderhill, is “minor” and should heal within 10 to 15 days, clearing the way for his return.
“He is currently in Dubai on his way back from the United States and will reach home tonight.”
“Fakhar himself said it’s nothing serious. Once back, he’ll undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.”
The injury forced Fakhar Zaman out of both the third T20I and the upcoming ODI against West Indies starting tonight. With no timetable issued yet, the PCB was said to be on the lookout for possible replacements for the batter.
However, if this estimate holds true, it means he could still be fit for Pakistan’s Asia Cup opener against Oman on September 12, where his experience on the UAE’s slow, spin-friendly surfaces will be invaluable.
With Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan looking solid as the opening pair, Pakistan may even choose to give him extended recovery time before the important games roll around.
Fakhar Zaman looked in solid touch during the T20Is against West Indies — scoring 28 off 24 balls in the opener and 20 off 19 in the second game before being sidelined.
The Asia Cup, starting September 9, features eight teams split into two groups: Pakistan, India, UAE, and Oman in Group A; Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, and Afghanistan in Group B.
The much-anticipated Pakistan–India showdown is set for September 14 in Dubai, where the experience of players like Fakhar Zaman counts the most.
Fakhar Zaman is on the mend, and that only means Pakistan’s chances of winning the 2025 Asia Cup have gone up a notch.
