Fakhar Zaman, born in Mardan, Pakistan, is a prominent cricket player known for his explosive batting skills and impressive performances in international cricket. Over the years, Zaman has carved a niche for himself in the cricketing world and has become one of the key players for the Pakistani team.
Zaman started his cricketing journey on the domestic circuit, where he showcased great talent and potential. With an unusually high backlift and flawless timing, he quickly caught the attention of selectors and fans alike. His domestic average of 42 in first-class cricket and 49 in List A are a testament to his consistent run-scoring abilities.
The turning point in Zaman’s career came during the Quaid-e-Azam trophy in the 2016-17 season. He amassed a total of 663 runs in the tournament at an average of 51. The highlight of his performance was the second innings of the final, where he scored a magnificent 170, dominating the game along with former Pakistan captain Salman Butt.
Zaman’s exceptional form in domestic cricket earned him a contract with the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). In the PSL, he demonstrated his class and elegance, particularly in a 33-ball 56 innings against Karachi. This impressive performance caught the attention of the national selectors, and he was rewarded with a call-up to Pakistan’s T20I side for the West Indies tour.
Although his initial T20I appearances did not yield significant runs, Zaman’s talent was undeniable. It was during the 2017 Champions Trophy in England that he truly announced himself to the cricketing world. Making his ODI debut, Zaman played a crucial role in turning around Pakistan’s batting fortunes. In his first four ODI innings, he scored 31, 50, 57, and a memorable 114 runs. His electrifying strike rate of 113.00 provided the much-needed impetus to Pakistan’s batting lineup.
The highlight of Zaman’s early ODI career came in the finals of the Champions Trophy against arch-rivals India. His brilliant century propelled Pakistan to a commanding total of 338, setting up a victory that was beyond the reach of the Indian team. Zaman’s exceptional performance in the final earned him the Player-of-the-Match award and further solidified his position in the national team.
Since then, Zaman has continued to excel in international cricket, consistently contributing with his aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly. He has been an integral part of Pakistan’s limited-overs setup and has played a crucial role in several notable victories.
Fakhar Zaman’s rise from the unnoticed domestic circuit to becoming a vital player for the Pakistani cricket team is an inspiring journey. With his natural talent, impeccable timing, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations, Zaman has established himself as one of the most dynamic openers in international cricket. As he continues to evolve and refine his skills, fans eagerly await his further contributions and achievements on the field.
