Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has urged both the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and opening batsman Fakhar Zaman to resolve their ongoing dispute. Highlighting the importance of unity for the betterment of Pakistan cricket, Akhtar addressed the matter during a recent appearance on a local news channel.
Disappointment Over Fakhar Zaman’s ExclusionExpressing his disappointment over Fakhar Zaman’s prolonged exclusion from the national squad, Shoaib Akhtar criticized PCB’s internal politics. He pointed out that the talented batsman had been sidelined due to what he termed as the board’s “ego issues.”
Fakhar Zaman exemplifies skill, composure, and unwavering determination, setting him apart as a player of true grit and excellence. However, you have unnecessarily removed him from the team because of your ego,” said the 49-year-old former cricketer.
Akhtar further emphasized Zaman’s importance to the national team, predicting that his skills will become unavoidable for Pakistan sooner or later.
He stated, “You might overlook him for now, but the day isn’t far when you’ll have no choice but to depend on him.”
Advice to Fakhar Zaman: Let Your Bat Do the TalkingWhile supporting Fakhar, Shoaib Akhtar also advised the left-handed opener to avoid making public statements and instead focus on performing on the field.
Fakhar must also realize that he needs to refrain from making such remarks. Instead, he should focus on performing and let his bat do the talking,” Akhtar said.
Background: Fakhar Zaman’s absence from the squad. Fakhar Zaman has been absent from Pakistan’s white-ball squad for some time. His exclusion from the South Africa touring squad was officially attributed to an “injury.”
However, the situation took a turn when Fakhar Zaman refuted these claims during the ongoing Champions T20 Cup. He clarified that he is fully fit and ready to play.
I am in peak fitness, which is why I’ve earned my place in the team. If given a chance, I will deliver. My journey began with the Champions Trophy, and I am grateful for my strong performances there that contributed to our victories,” Fakhar stated.
He went on to say, “My focus is on delivering strong performances and helping my team secure wins.”
PCB’s Stance on Fakhar ZamanPakistan’s interim head coach, Aaqib Javed, had earlier stated in a PCB press release that Fakhar Zaman was not considered due to concerns about his form and match fitness.
Aaqib Javed mentioned that Fakhar Zaman was excluded because he is still in the process of regaining his form and match fitness.
This conflicting narrative between the PCB and Fakhar Zaman has highlighted a larger issue within the team’s selection and management process.
The Bigger Picture:
Need for Unity in Pakistan CricketThe ongoing public disagreement between Fakhar Zaman and the PCB underscores deeper issues in Pakistan cricket, particularly related to player selection and management.
With the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, Shoaib Akhtar’s call for reconciliation serves as a timely reminder. He stressed the need for harmony between the players and management to build a strong, competitive team for future challenges.
Conclusion
Shoaib Akhtar’s appeal for resolving the rift between Fakhar Zaman and the PCB highlights the importance of unity, professionalism, and transparency in Pakistan cricket. Both sides now face the challenge of putting their differences aside to ensure the national team is well-prepared for upcoming tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
By focusing on performance and clear communication, Pakistan cricket can overcome internal conflicts and achieve greater success on the global stage.
