Fakhar set for rehab process, eyes comeback

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s explosive top-order batsman Fakhar Zaman is scheduled to begin his rehabilitation program in the last week of November with an eye on rejoining the national team for its upcoming tour of South Africa and Zimbabwe next month.

A reliable source within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) told ‘The News’ that Fakhar will have another chance to prove his fitness later this month.

His recent absence from the squad stemmed from both fitness and disciplinary issues as he had failed fitness assessments multiple times and a recent social media post in support of Babar Azam added to the growing concerns. However, the PCB seems ready to give him a fresh opportunity.

“Fakhar was sidelined primarily due to fitness issues, failing three fitness tests, but there were also disciplinary matters concerning a post he made in support of Babar Azam,” the source said.

“However, he’ll have a chance to regain his place by completing his rehabilitation and demonstrating improved fitness.”

Fakhar recently submitted his reply to the PCB in response to a show-cause notice, though the details of his response remain undisclosed.

With his fitness test on the horizon, it’s expected that the PCB has conditionally accepted his explanation that is contingent on his compliance with a structured rehabilitation and fitness program.

If Fakhar successfully completes rehab and passes his fitness tests, he is likely to be considered for a spot in the central contract list, potentially in Category C, despite missing out in the initial list of 25 contracted players.

“Starting a player’s rehab is a clear signal that he’s acknowledged his misstep, in this case the social media post. Once he completes the program, he will be eligible for team selection for the Zimbabwe and South Africa series,” the source added.

Pakistan team’s upcoming South Africa tour holds special significance for Fakhar. During the 2021 series, he famously led Pakistan to back-to-back ODI wins with stellar performances, scoring 302 runs across three matches in a series that was dubbed as ‘Fakhar Zaman vs South Africa’.

His performance was instrumental in Pakistan’s 2-1 series win, showcasing his potential as a game-changing asset.

This rehabilitation period marks a critical moment in Fakhar’s career and if all goes well, the fans may see him back in green soon, poised to make another memorable impact.