Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has poured cold water on sensational claims of his T20I retirement, attributing the rumors to his supposed plans to relocate to America. This comes hot on the heels of a two-game PSL suspension for ball-tampering allegations that he staunchly refutes.
The incident unfolded in a fiery PSL encounter on March 29 between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings. Zaman protested his innocence before match referee Roshan Mahanama, but the PCB’s review panel stood firm on the ban after deliberations.
Online chatter exploded with unverified posts alleging Zaman had shipped his family to the US and was done with T20 internationals. His battle with fitness woes, including hormone-related injuries, added fuel to the fire.
According to confidants speaking to Telecom Asia Sport Tuesday, ‘There’s no truth to the retirement or emigration stories. Fakhar has reaffirmed his dedication to the PCB and selectors.’
Recall Zaman’s fireworks at the T20 World Cup: a gritty 25 and an explosive 84 in two outings, showcasing peak aggression without fitness falters. However, those same troubles sidelined him from the Bangladesh ODI tour, prompting earlier speculation about format shifts.
With Pakistan’s T20 slate clear until an October showdown with Sri Lanka, and ODIs against Australia set for May-June at home, Zaman has a window to rebuild.
Sources indicate he’s gearing up for the 2028 T20 World Cup, prioritizing fitness overhaul. His sights are also set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket’s inclusion could see Pakistan compete, potentially against India.
Zaman’s emphatic denial restores calm among supporters, positioning him as a cornerstone for Pakistan’s white-ball resurgence.
