Fakhar Zaman Gears Up For ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Confident Of Pakistan Comeback

January 8, 2025: Fakhar Zaman’s determination to return to the Pakistan national team is clear, and his focus on the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is especially significant given his history with the tournament. His pivotal role in Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy triumph, where he scored a match-winning 114 in the final against India, has undoubtedly shaped his ambitions for the upcoming edition in 2025. Fakhar’s recovery from a recent illness and his commitment to being fully fit for the tournament underscore his desire to play a key role in what would be a historic event, especially with it being held in Pakistan.

The 33-year-old left-handed opener has faced challenges in recent months, including missing the 2024 T20 World Cup and struggling with fitness, but his resolve remains unshaken. Fakhar’s thoughtful preparation plan for the Champions Trophy, which included not playing in tours of Australia and South Africa, shows his long-term focus on making himself available and in top condition for the tournament.

His optimism about the competition for spots in the Pakistan team is also clear. Despite the strong presence of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and the rising star Saim Ayub, Fakhar is not deterred. He acknowledges the tough competition for top-order slots but expresses his willingness to play wherever the team requires him, showing his team-first mentality. If Ayub can recover from his injury, it will add another layer of intrigue to Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially considering Ayub’s early success in ODIs.

Fakhar’s praise for Saim Ayub reflects the respect he has for the younger generation of players, and his belief in Ayub’s potential to become one of the world’s top players is a testament to Pakistan’s exciting future. Fakhar’s own journey, marked by consistency and match-winning performances in major tournaments, continues to fuel his belief in his own abilities. His recovery from illness and readiness for the ILT20 season with the Desert Vipers in January 2025 will likely provide him with much-needed match practice ahead of the Champions Trophy.

The ILT20 experience will also be a valuable opportunity for Fakhar to fine-tune his game in a competitive environment and to reconnect with former Pakistan teammates like Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi. His decision to join the Desert Vipers based on positive feedback about the team environment shows his eagerness to play in an atmosphere where he can thrive, both mentally and physically.

For Pakistan, Fakhar’s return to fitness and form could be a significant boost as they prepare for the Champions Trophy on home soil. His leadership and experience could prove invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations. With a strong mix of experienced players and talented newcomers, Pakistan will hope to make the most of their home advantage, and Fakhar will be keen to add to his legacy with another standout performance.