Imam-ul-Haq Approved as Replacement for Injured Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan's Champions Trophy Squad

In a significant development for Pakistan’s ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, opener Imam-ul-Haq has been officially approved as a replacement for the injured Fakhar Zaman. The International Cricket Council (ICC) Event Technical Committee gave the green light for Imam’s inclusion after Fakhar was ruled out due to an oblique injury, a setback that has forced Pakistan to reshuffle their squad.

The decision was confirmed by the Event Technical Committee (ETC), which is responsible for reviewing player replacements in the tournament. The panel, consisting of Wasim Khan (ICC General Manager – Cricket), Sarah Edgar (ICC Senior Manager – Events), Usman Wahla (PCB Director – International Cricket Operations), and Shaun Pollock (Independent Representative), approved Imam’s inclusion after reviewing Pakistan’s request.

Pakistan Forced to Make a Tactical Change

The injury to Fakhar Zaman came as a major blow for Pakistan, especially as they prepare for a crucial encounter against India in Dubai. Fakhar sustained the injury while fielding during Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand in Karachi, a game that ended in a 60-run defeat for the Men in Green. His absence leaves a void in the top order, which Pakistan will now hope Imam can fill effectively.

At 29 years old, Imam brings valuable experience to the squad, having played 72 ODIs for Pakistan. The left-handed batter has been a consistent performer at the international level, boasting a strong batting average of 49.75 in ODIs, with nine centuries and 20 fifties to his name. His ability to anchor innings and rotate the strike makes him a crucial addition as Pakistan looks to bounce back in the tournament.

Event Technical Committee’s Role in the Replacement

The replacement of a player in a tournament of this magnitude requires formal approval from the ICC’s Event Technical Committee (ETC) before the new player can officially join the squad. The ETC evaluates player replacements based on the nature of injuries, team requirements, and tournament regulations before making a final decision.

The Event Technical Committee for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 comprises:
✅ Wasim Khan – ICC General Manager, Cricket
✅ Sarah Edgar – ICC Senior Manager, Events
✅ Usman Wahla – PCB Director, International Cricket Operations
✅ Shaun Pollock – Independent Representative

Imam-ul-Haq’s Potential Impact on Pakistan’s Campaign

With Fakhar Zaman ruled out, Pakistan now looks to Imam-ul-Haq to bring stability to the top order. While Fakhar is known for his aggressive stroke play, Imam offers a more calculated and patient approach, which could prove beneficial in high-pressure situations.

Pakistan’s next match is against arch-rivals India in Dubai, a fixture that always carries immense significance. With the Green Shirts already facing challenges after their opening defeat, Imam's inclusion could bring much-needed composure to Pakistan’s batting lineup.

The upcoming India vs. Pakistan clash is expected to be a blockbuster, with both teams fighting for supremacy in the eight-team tournament. With Pakistan’s Champions Trophy title defense at stake, all eyes will be on Imam to deliver a crucial performance on the grand stage.