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Fakhar Zaman Injury: The ICC has given its approval for Imam-ul-Haq to replace injured Fakhar Zaman in the Champions Trophy squad ahead of Pakistan’s crucial match against India on 23rd February in Dubai.

After young left-handed Pakistani batter Saim Ayub was sidelined from the Champions Trophy squad due to injury, Pakistan has now suffered another significant blow with opening batter Fakhar Zaman also ruled out for the remaining matches of the tournament following an injury sustained during the game against New Zealand.

Fakhar’s injury has dealt a major blow to Pakistan’s chances of defending their Champions Trophy title.

Fakhar Zaman sustained the injury on only the second ball of the tournament while chasing a cover drive from Will Young off Shaheen Shah Afridi.

He was unable to open the innings, not because of his injury, but due to ICC playing regulations, and instead batted at number four.

After several visits from the team doctor and taking painkillers, Fakhar Zaman came out to bat. However, he couldn’tproduce a standout performance due to ongoing discomfort, getting out for 24 off 41 balls.

Following Fakhar’s injury, Pakistan has brought in Imam-ul-Haq, who last played for the national team in December 2023. Now, Imam will travel to Dubai with the team ahead of their crucial match against India on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan’s Updated Squad

Mohammad Rizwan (C), Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Usman Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

ALSO READ: IND Vs BAN: The Clash Of Rivals In Champions Trophy 2025

PAK VS NZ: New Zealand defeated defending champions Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening match of the Champions Trophy on 19th February in Karachi.

The Kiwis have defeated the defending champions! New Zealand maintain their dominance, overcoming Pakistan for the third time in just 10 days on their home ground. They are early favorites in the tournament.

Pakistan, on the other hand, have much to reflect on and will be concerned about Fakhar Zaman’s injury, although there were moments of promise. A statement win for the Black Caps.

Pakistan never truly found their rhythm in the chase. The absence of Fakhar Zaman at the top proved costly, as the openers lacked intent and struggled in the powerplay, scoring just 22 runs while losing two wickets.

Babar Azam’s half-century seemed oddly restrained as the required run rate continued to climb. Captain Mohammad Rizwan was dismissed by a brilliant catch from Glenn Phillips.

Salman Ali Agha’s cameo, along with Khushdil Shah’s fighting knock provided a glimmer of hope. However, without substantial support, the target remained out of reach and they ultimately fell short by 60 runs.

PAK VS NZ: 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, New Zealand delivered a spectacular batting performance, with Will Young and Tom Latham both scoring centuries. Glenn Phillips added the finishing touch with a blistering fifty, leading the Black Caps to a commanding total of 320.

Pakistan had a few bright moments, with Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah taking two wickets each, while Abrar Ahmed also contributed one. However, their death bowling issues reappeared at the most inopportune moment.

New Zealand delivered a top-class bowling performance, supported by electrifying fielding, reinforcing their dominance once again. Glenn Phillips set the tone with a breathtaking catch, while Matt Henry and O’Rourke restricted the batters early, each claiming a wicket.

The spin trio of Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips took charge in the middle overs, with Santner and O’Rourke finishing with three wickets each. Nathan Smith also made a contribution, while Henry delivered a superb performance for New Zealand.

Also Read: PAK VS NZ: The Ultimate ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Opening Battle

PAK VS NZ: The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will begin today, featuring eight teams competing in the tournament.

New Zealand and Pakistan will clash in the opening game of the Tournament, which is scheduled for February 19 at the recently upgraded National Bank Stadium in Karachi.

Pakistan is going to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking its first major cricket event since 1996.

Earlier in this month, Pakistan and New Zealand faced off in two ODIs as part of a Tri-Series. The Black Caps won both matches, including the final, claiming the title of the tri-series champions and ending their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on a high note.

PAK VS NZ: Head-to-head records

The two teams have competed in 118 ODIs so far, with Pakistan holding the upper hand in records.

The Green Shirts have secured 61 victories out of 118 ODIs against the Black Caps, while New Zealand has won 53 matches against Pakistan. One game ended in a tie, and three matches had no result.

PAK VS NZ: Match Details

• Toss: 02:00 pm ( Pakistan Standard Time)
  • 02:30 pm ( India Standard Time)
  • 10:00 pm ( New Zealand Time)
  • 04:00 am ( USA Time)
• Match Start: After half hour of toss.
• Date: 19 February, 2025.
• Day: Wednesday
• Venue: National Bank Stadium, Karachi.

PAK VS NZ: Squads

PAKISTAN

Mohammad Rizwan (C), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Kamran Ghulam, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf.

NEW ZEALAND

Mitchell Santner (C), Tom Latham, Mark Chapman, Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy and Lockie Ferguson. 

Also Read: New Zealand Won The Tri-Nation Series 2025

ZIM vs IRE: The third and final ODI between Zimbabwe and Ireland is scheduled for 18th February 2025 at the Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

The stage is set for the third ODI between Ireland and Zimbabwe on Tuesday. Brian Bennett led the hosts to a win in the series opener, while Ireland made a strong comeback in the second ODI to level the series, setting up an exciting final match.

A disciplined bowling effort from the visitors limited Zimbabwe to 245, and they easily chased the target, finishing with six wickets remaining and eight balls to spare.

Unlike the first game, Ireland’s new-ball bowlers made an early impact, with Mark Adair leading the way. Together with Graham Hume, he will be crucial in establishing the tone with the ball once again. Josh Little has remained relatively quiet so far and will be eager to step up and make an impact in this important match.

Andy Balbirnie has yet to make an impact with the bat, but Paul Stirling, George Dockrell, and Lorcan Tucker have all contributed, while Curtis Campher has impressed with both bat and ball.

For Zimbabwe, batting was their undoing in the second ODI, with several players unable to capitalize on their promising starts. The bowlers also faced challenges in maintaining control, giving away 23 extras in total.

The hosts will require a team effort from Brian Bennett, Wessly Madhevere, and Sikandar Raza, the latter two coming off fifties in the previous match.

With the ball, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, and Trevor Gwandu will need to produce a more disciplined display to keep Ireland under control.

Also Read: ZIM Vs IRE: Stirling And Campher Shine In 6-Wicket Win

ZIM Vs IRE: Captain Paul Stirling scored 89 off 102 deliveries, while Curtis Campher contributed 63 off 94 balls, leading Ireland to a successful chase of 249-4, surpassing Zimbabwe’s 245 with eight balls remaining.

Ireland leveled the ODI series against Zimbabwe by winning the second match at Harare Sports Club, setting up an exciting showdown for the series decider, scheduled for 18 February.

It was an easy chase for Ireland! Their bowlers delivered a commendable effort in the first innings, restricting Zimbabwe to under 250, and the batters followed up with a solid performance. Although they lost Andrew Balbirnie early, Paul Stirling and Curtis Campher stepped up with brilliant knocks.

Paul Stirling played a stellar knock, scoring (89 off 102 balls), including 8 fours and 2 sixes. Meanwhile, Curtis Campher showcased his all-round skills, taking 3 wickets for just 13 runs in the first innings and then blasting a crucial half-century (63 off 94) while chasing the target.

Their partnership brought Ireland very close to victory. After playing match-winning innings, both Stirling and Campher were dismissed. However, Lorcan Tucker (36*) and George Dockrell (20*) stepped up, guiding the Ireland Cricket team across the finish line to secure the win.

ZIM Vs IRE: 1st inning

Earlier, after being put to bat, Zimbabwe struggled to put up a sufficient total, finishing with 245 runs in 48.4 overs.

This total was primarily due to a crucial fourth-wicket partnership between Wessly Madhevere (61 off 70) and Sikandar Raza (58 off 75), which helped the hosts reach 245.

Wessly Madhevere was the highest run-scorer for the hosts. 

For Ireland, Mark Adair was the standout performer with figures of 4-54, while Curtis Campher finished with impressive figures of 3-13. Additionally, Andy McBrine, Graham Hume, and Joshua Little each claimed a wicket.

Also Read: New Zealand Won The Tri-Nation Series 2025

PAK Vs NZ: New Zealand cruised to a comfortable five-wicket victory over hosts Pakistan in the final of the 2025 Tri-Nation ODI series, successfully chasing down the 243-run target in just 45.2 overs at the National Stadium in Karachi.

The win in this series provided New Zealand with a boost as they prepare for their ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan at this venue on Wednesday.

New Zealand has proven their superiority in the tri-nation series, showcasing unmatched dominance and flair. If this was an audition for the ICC Champions Trophy, they’ve aced it with flying colors, looking like strong contenders. On the other hand, Pakistan has received a reality check, there’s a lot to address before the major tournament.

Despite an early setback, New Zealand made the chase look effortless! Kane Williamson and Devon Conway set a strong platform, with Tom Latham and Daryl Mitchell taking charge and guiding the team with assurance. Mitchell’s half-century was crucial, but he fell before the finish, as did Latham after a fortunate knock. In the end, Glenn Phillips, the hero of the first game, wrapped up the victory.

Pakistan will be disappointed with their bowling and fielding performance! Naseem Shah made an early breakthrough and picked up another, while Salman Ali Agha and Abrar Ahmed contributed, but they failed to maintain consistent pressure. However, the real damage was done in the field—too many dropped catches and careless moments proved costly. They’ll need to address these problems quickly as they prepare for tougher challenges ahead.

PAK Vs NZ – 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 243, with valuable contributions from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, along with some late fireworks from the lower order. However, New Zealand’s bowlers were in outstanding form! O’Rourke was the star, taking an impressive four-wicket haul. Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell each claimed two wickets, while Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy also made key contributions, ensuring Pakistan never gained control.

Also Read: Sri Lanka Seals ODI Victory By 174 Runs

SL Vs AUS: Sri Lanka dominates the World Champions Australia in their last ODI ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 

Sri Lanka seals a 2-0 series whitewash over Australia! In the second game, they outclassed the visitors with a commanding 174-run victory, completing a perfect series sweep. This victory further solidifies Sri Lanka’s supremacy on home soil, stretching their unbeaten ODI series streak to 11 consecutive wins.

After Sri Lanka set a strong total of 281 in 50 overs, Australia’s chase faltered when Josh Inglis was dismissed, sparking a collapse that saw wickets fall quickly. Despite a solid start, Australia’s middle order and lower batting line-up couldn’t handle Sri Lanka’s tight bowling attack. Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, and Travis Head were the only Australian batters to score in double figures. The most concerning aspect for Australia was their dramatic collapse from 78-3 to being bowled out for just 107.

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was outstanding, with Ashita Fernando and Wanindu Hasaranga each taking three wickets. However, Dunith Wellalage was the standout performance, who claimed four wickets, that stole the spotlight. The bowlers adhered to their strategies and executed them with precision, while the captain made crucial field placements, ensuring a well-rounded team effort.

SL Vs AUS: 1st Inning 

Earlier, Sri Lanka’s batting line-up clicked in full force, with Kusal Mendis scoring an outstanding century, while Nishan Madushka and Charith Asalanka both made valuable half-centuries. Janith Liyanage added a handy 32. Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Ben Dwarshuis, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, and Adam Zampa each claiming one. 

Also Read: Pakistan Seal Record-Breaking Chase In The ODI

PAK VS SA: The third ODI of the four-match tri-nation series between Pakistan and South Africa was played at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday, where many records and statistics were broken.

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s remarkable 260-run partnership from just 229 balls for the fourth wicket powered Pakistan to a historic chase of 353, achieving the target with an over to spare.

This marked Pakistan’s first successful chase of a 350-plus target in ODIs. Their previous highest successful chase was 349, which they achieved against Australia in Lahore in 2022.

For Visitors, this is the highest target they have ever allowed in ODI cricket. Their previous highest was a loss after posting 326 against Australia in 2002.

Pakistan has made it to the final of the tri-series after achieving their highest-ever chase! It was an exceptional batting performance. Despite chasing a challenging total, the openers gave them a strong start. However, they lost three quick wickets, putting them on the back foot.

Then came the match-winning partnership between captain Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha. They began slowly but gained momentum as the innings went on. Together, they put on nearly 260 runs, with both players scoring centuries. Salman Ali Agha registered his first century in ODI cricket. Agha was dismissed for 134 off 103 near the end, but Rizwan played a captain’s knock, leading his team to a remarkable victory.

South Africa once again struggled with the ball. Mulder bowled superbly with the new ball, removing both Pakistani openers. However, after that, they struggled to control the flow of runs. Too many boundary balls were bowled, and their spinners couldn’t get much turn, limiting their wicket-taking ability. Bavuma will be disappointed with their inability to defend such a large target, but credit goes to Pakistan for their brilliant fight.

PAK VS SA: 1st Inning

Earlier, powered by half-centuries from Heinrich Klaasen, Temba Bavuma, and Matthew Breetzke, South Africa set a challenging total of 352/5 in 50 overs. Heinrich Klaasen played a brilliant knock of 87 runs off 56 balls, providing the Proteas’ innings with a crucial lift. Captain Bavuma fell short of a century, getting run out for 82, but laid a solid foundation for his team’s big total. Young Matthew Breetzke continued his impressive form from the previous match, scoring 83 off 84 balls before being dismissed by Khushdil Shah.

Matthew Breetzke has accumulated 233 runs in his first two ODIs, scoring 150 and 83 in this series. He has surpassed Desmond Haynes’ previous record of 195 runs in the first two matches in ODI format. 

Also Read: Australia Falls Short By 49 Runs In The First ODI

AUS Vs SL: Sri Lanka take a 1-0 lead with a fighting performance! After a disastrous start at 55/5, they managed to recover and secure a 49-run victory.

Captain Charith Asalanka’s valiant century led Sri Lanka to a defendable target, and then the bowlers responded with a determined and energetic performance.

Australia would have been happy to chase down a target of 215 at the start of the day, but their lack of discipline and impatience at the crease proved to be their downfall. Although the pitch did slow down in the second innings, batting remained achievable with the right mindset and approach.

Australia faced a similarly challenging start as Sri Lanka, with their batters contributing to their own downfall through reckless shot selection. Asitha Fernando struck early, while Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage teamed up to leave the visitors in a dire position at 31/4.

Alex Carey and Marnus Labuschagne then partnered for a recovery, with Carey adopting an attacking approach. However, both Labuschagne and Carey were dismissed in quick succession, leaving the lower order with a daunting task ahead.

Following their dismissals, Aaron Hardie kept the chase alive for a while, but once he was out, the outcome was all but determined.

For Sri Lanka, Asitha Fernando made early breakthroughs with two wickets, but as expected, the Sri Lankan spinners dominated the middle overs. Maheesh Theekshana was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 40 runs in 9.5 overs. Dunith Wellalage contributed with two wickets to go along with his 30-run innings earlier in the day, while Hasaranga finished without a wicket.

AUS Vs SL: 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, after choosing to bat, the Australian pacers made full use of the conditions, reducing the home side to 55/5, with the batters struggling to find their rhythm. Captain Charith Asalanka and Dunith Wellalage fought back, but once the partnership was broken, Asalanka was left to battle alone. He found support in Eshan Malinga, who contributed just one run in their 79-run stand, showing admirable defensive resistance. Asalanka’s career-best ODI knock of 127 helped Sri Lanka recover, bringing them to a total of 214 after being in a precarious position at 135/8.

For Australia, Sean Abbott was the top wicket-taker, claiming 3 wickets for 61 runs. Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, and Spencer Johnson each took two wickets, while Matt Short picked up one, and Adam Zampa went wicketless.

Also Read: India Beat England By 4 Wickets In 2nd ODI