Pakistan Star Fakhar Zaman Set to Announce Shock Retirement After Champions Trophy Disaster; Plans to Move Abroad with Family
Pakistan cricket is once again in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Following the team’s humiliating group-stage exit from the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and players are facing intense scrutiny. Amid the turmoil, reports have emerged that one of Pakistan’s most prominent cricketers, Fakhar Zaman, is set to announce his retirement from One Day International (ODI) cricket. The opener, known for his explosive batting and match-winning performances, is reportedly stepping away from the format due to a combination of health issues and frustration with the PCB’s policies.
A Shocking Decision
According to a report by Samaa TV, Fakhar Zaman has decided to call time on his ODI career after a long struggle with health issues, particularly hyperthyroidism. The 34-year-old, who has been a mainstay in Pakistan’s batting lineup, reportedly informed senior players of his decision during the Champions Trophy. “Champions Trophy will be my last ICC tournament. I want to take a break from ODI cricket,” Zaman was quoted as saying.
Zaman’s decision comes as a blow to Pakistan cricket, especially in the wake of the team’s disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy. The defending champions were eliminated in the group stage after losing their opening matches to New Zealand and India. Zaman himself was ruled out of the tournament after sustaining an injury during the first game against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. While fielding, he suffered an injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the campaign and is expected to keep him out of action for at least three months.
A Storied Career
Fakhar Zaman’s ODI career has been nothing short of remarkable. In 86 matches, he scored 3,651 runs at an impressive average of 46.21, including 10 centuries and 18 half-centuries. His most iconic performance came during the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final against India at The Oval, where he smashed a scintillating century to help Pakistan clinch their maiden title. His aggressive batting style and ability to perform under pressure made him a fan favorite and a key player for Pakistan in limited-overs cricket.
However, Zaman’s career has also been marred by injuries and health issues. His battle with hyperthyroidism, a condition that affects the thyroid gland, has been a constant challenge. Despite these setbacks, he continued to represent Pakistan with distinction, but the physical and mental toll appears to have finally caught up with him.
Frustration with PCB Policies
In addition to his health struggles, Zaman’s decision to retire is reportedly influenced by his frustration with the PCB’s selection policies, particularly regarding No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) for participation in overseas leagues. Pakistani players often face restrictions when it comes to playing in foreign T20 leagues, which has been a point of contention for many cricketers. Zaman, who has been a sought-after player in leagues around the world, is said to be disillusioned with the board’s approach.
As a result, the left-handed opener is likely to move abroad with his family, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. While this marks the end of his ODI career, Zaman may continue to play in T20 leagues globally, where his explosive batting can still shine.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Disaster
Zaman’s retirement news comes at a difficult time for Pakistan cricket. The team’s early exit from the Champions Trophy has left fans and critics alike questioning the direction of the sport in the country. After losing to New Zealand by 60 runs and suffering a six-wicket defeat against India, Pakistan became the first team to be eliminated from the tournament. Their final group-stage match against Bangladesh on Thursday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Ground is now a dead rubber, with nothing but pride at stake.
The PCB has come under fire for its handling of the team and the selection process, with many calling for a complete overhaul of the management and coaching staff. Zaman’s retirement adds to the growing list of challenges the board must address as it looks to rebuild Pakistan cricket.
What Lies Ahead for Fakhar Zaman?
While Fakhar Zaman’s ODI career may be coming to an end, his legacy as one of Pakistan’s most dynamic openers will endure. His contributions to the team, particularly in the 2017 Champions Trophy, will be remembered fondly by fans. As he prepares to move abroad with his family, Zaman’s focus will likely shift to T20 leagues and exploring new opportunities outside of international cricket.
For Pakistan, his retirement is a stark reminder of the need to address the issues plaguing the team and the board. As the PCB grapples with the fallout from the Champions Trophy disaster, the departure of a player of Zaman’s caliber underscores the urgency for change.
Fakhar Zaman’s impending retirement marks the end of an era for Pakistan cricket. While his decision is a personal one, driven by health concerns and frustration with the system, it also highlights the broader challenges facing the sport in the country. As Pakistan looks to rebuild, the lessons from this period must not be ignored. For now, fans will bid farewell to a player who brought them countless moments of joy and hope for a brighter future.
