KARACHI – Pakistani opener Fakhar Zaman is reportedly “upset” after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) omitted him from its latest list of centrally contracted players, according to a report by the Press Trust of India (PTI). Despite his disappointment, Fakhar, the only Pakistani batter to have scored a double century in ODIs, is not considering retirement from international cricket.
Alongside the contract exclusion, Fakhar was also left out of the squad for Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball series in Australia, further deepening his discontent. Sources close to Fakhar stated that he feels the PCB and selectors applied inconsistent standards in recent fitness assessments, suggesting that other players with similar fitness issues were still selected.
Fakhar has been managing a knee injury since 2022 and recently missed the required timing in the two-kilometer sprint test, which was reportedly a factor in his exclusion. However, Fakhar believes some players were given leeway despite failing the same fitness criteria.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi addressed the issue, acknowledging that Fakhar’s recent tweet regarding Babar Azam’s selection breached the board’s code of conduct, though he clarified that fitness concerns were the main reason behind the exclusion. “His fitness has not been at its best recently. The selectors have advised him to undergo rehabilitation and clear the fitness tests before returning,” Naqvi stated.
Some insiders suggest that Fakhar’s open criticism during last month’s PCB Connection Camp may have also influenced the board’s decision. PCB officials are reportedly displeased with his candid remarks on their performance, leading to speculation that his exclusion was, in part, a response to his outspoken approach.
