Injured Fakhar out, Pakistan call up Imam

KARACHI, Feb 20 (Agencies): Hosts Pakistan suffered a serious blow Thursday when opener Fakhar Zaman was ruled out of the Champions Trophy with an injury ahead of their crunch clash with arch-rivals India.

The 34-year-old left-handed batsman was replaced by Imam-ul-Haq, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said.

Zaman sprained a chest muscle while fielding at the start of Pakistan's game against New Zealand in Karachi on Wednesday, which the hosts lost by 60 runs.

He could not open the innings because of playing rules and instead batted at number four and made a laborious 41-ball 24, showing signs of discomfort.

Zaman has played 86 ODIs, averaging just over 46.

"I have been privileged enough to represent Pakistan multiple times with pride," he wrote on social media.

"Unfortunately I'm now

out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 but surely Allah is the best planner. Grateful for the opportunity.

Following Wednesday's defeat in the tournament opener, defending champions Pakistan now must beat India in Dubai in Group A on Sunday to keep alive their chances of reaching the semi-finals.