Pakistan’s opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was expected to be a tough contest, especially with Fakhar Zaman unable to open the innings.
This situation raised the question of whether his absence from the top order could turn out to be a blessing in disguise for the team.
Pakistan’s opener, Fakhar Zaman, had spent a considerable amount of time off the field, which ruled him out from starting the innings.
As per ICC regulations, Fakhar Zaman was not allowed to bat for the first 20 minutes of the innings.
This left Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam with the responsibility of forming the opening partnership.
