Left-handed opener Fakhar Zaman, on Thursday, opened up about his first training session since recovering from the injury that cut short his ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 campaign. The injury occurred during Pakistan's opening match against New Zealand, forcing Fakhar to withdraw from the tournament just ahead of their crucial match against India on February 23 in Dubai.
Fakhar sustained the injury on the second ball of Pakistan's opening match in the Champions Trophy. He had sprinted from mid-off to stop a shot from Will Young, which was driven through the covers off a Shaheen Afridi delivery. In an attempt to stop the boundary, Fakhar's knees got stuck in the outfield, causing him to fall in visible pain.
Despite the injury, Fakhar continued to bat for Pakistan, managing to score 24 runs off 41 balls before being dismissed by Michael Bracewell. Subsequent scans revealed an oblique tear, which led to his unfortunate withdrawal from the rest of the tournament.
After his Champions Trophy heartbreak, Fakhar has begun his preparations for the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, which is set to start on April 11. Fakhar will represent Lahore Qalandars in tournament.
Reflecting on his first training session post-injury, Fakhar admitted that it was challenging at first but he gradually got back into the groove.
"The first day was good. Since I batted for almost one and a half months, it felt a bit tough, but it was good overall," Fakhar said in a video statement shared by the Lahore Qalandars on their social media channels.
He further explained, "It felt awkward as if I am batting without pads, but again, it was just the first day, and we have eight to nine days more, so I am hopeful of getting back into the rhythm."
Fakhar also outlined his goals for the PSL, emphasizing his desire to be the leading run-scorer and help his team win the tournament.
"Look, my personal goals always remain the same and that is to be the best batter of the tournament and to make my team win the final. So, my goal is the same this year," he said.
"I will try my best to help my team win matches and propel them into the final," Fakhar added, expressing his determination to overcome the injury setback and deliver strong performances in the upcoming season.
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