Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign just got a big boost. Imam-ul-Haq is set to join the squad in Dubai on Friday, right in time for the much-anticipated showdown against India on February 23.
The left-handed opener replaces Fakhar Zaman, who suffered an unfortunate oblique tear while fielding against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19. With Fakhar ruled out, Pakistan needed an experienced replacement at the top of the order, and Imam fits the bill perfectly.
A Timely Call-Up
Imam’s selection didn’t come out of nowhere as he has been performing consistently in domestic cricket. The left-hander had also featured in Pakistan Shaheens’ warm-up match against South Africa, making him match-ready for the big stage.
Not only that, yesterday after being officially named as Fakhar’s replacement, he smashed a brilliant 158 runs for PTV against OGDCL in the President’s Trophy. Talk about making a statement!
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A source close to the team confirmed: “Imam-ul-Haq has been released by PTV and will travel tomorrow after a brief stay in Lahore. He will be available for selection against India.”
ODI Record of Imam-ul-Haq
If selected, Imam-ul-Haq will be making his first ODI appearance for Pakistan since the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. His numbers in the format speak for themselves:
- 72 ODIs
- 3,138 runs
- 48.27 average
- 9 centuries & 20 fifties
His ability to anchor an innings while accelerating when needed makes him a solid option at the top. Plus, his familiarity with high-pressure matches will come in handy against India.
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