Fakhar Zaman Likely to Regain Fitness Before Asia Cup in UAE
Fakhar Zaman likely to regain full fitness before Asia Cup 2025 in UAE. Minor hamstring injury expected to heal in 10–15 days ahead of September 12 match.
Israr Ahmed
Pakistan’s star opener, Fakhar Zaman, is on track to recover from his recent hamstring injury in time for the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled to begin in the UAE on September 12. The left-handed batter sustained a minor strain during the second T20I against West Indies in Lauderhill, Florida, which ruled him out of the third T20I and the subsequent ODI series.
Injury and Rehabilitation
Fakhar returned to Pakistan immediately after the injury and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. According to sources within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the injury is minor, and Fakhar is expected to make a full recovery within 10–15 days, allowing him to rejoin the squad ahead of the Asia Cup opener.
Team physio Clint McKinnon confirmed that Fakhar’s recovery is progressing well and that there are no major concerns regarding his fitness.
Recovery Timeline
| Date | Event | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Aug 10, 2025 | Injury sustained during 2nd T20I | Hamstring strain |
| Aug 20, 2025 | Returned to Pakistan for rehabilitation | Ongoing rehab |
| Aug 25–30, 2025 | Expected full recovery and fitness test | Ready for selection |
| Sept 12, 2025 | Asia Cup 2025 begins in UAE | Possible return |
Role in Asia Cup 2025
If cleared by the medical team, Fakhar is expected to resume his position as opening batsman, potentially partnering with Saim Ayub or Mohammad Rizwan. His aggressive batting style will be particularly valuable on the slow, spin-friendly pitches in the UAE.
Team Management and Contingency Plans
The PCB has been closely monitoring Fakhar’s rehabilitation. Chief Selector Mohammad Wasim stated:
“We are hopeful Fakhar will be fit for the Asia Cup, but backup options are being prepared in case of any last-minute setbacks. His experience at the top of the order is invaluable.”
In case of delayed recovery, the team may consider Babar Azam or other alternatives to maintain balance in the batting lineup. The final squad announcement is expected in the second week of August 2025.
Fakhar Zaman’s Recent Form
| Match | Runs | Balls | Strike Rate | Opposition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd T20I | 58 | 42 | 138.09 | West Indies | Aug 9, 2025 |
| 1st T20I | 35 | 27 | 129.63 | West Indies | Aug 6, 2025 |
| 3rd ODI | 72 | 55 | 130.91 | West Indies | Aug 4, 2025 |
| 2nd ODI | 48 | 33 | 145.45 | West Indies | Aug 2, 2025 |
| 1st ODI | 45 | 31 | 145.16 | West Indies | July 30, 2025 |
Fakhar has been in solid form, consistently accelerating scoring at the top of the order, making him a critical asset for Pakistan.
Asia Cup Preparation and Significance
The Asia Cup 2025 is a key tournament for teams to finalize combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. Fakhar’s presence in the top order could provide Pakistan with stability and momentum, especially on spin-friendly UAE tracks.
Selectors and medical staff will closely monitor his fitness and form in the final days before the tournament to ensure he is ready to lead Pakistan’s top order.
Conclusion
Fakhar Zaman’s expected recovery brings relief to Pakistan cricket fans, as his aggressive batting and experience at the top will be crucial for a strong Asia Cup 2025 campaign. All eyes remain on his final fitness check and the upcoming squad announcement.
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