Imam ul Haq Pakistan’s left handed opener batter has responded to his exclusion from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad. With a ambiguous social media post sparking discussions among fans and experts.
Shortly after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed the squad for the Champions Trophy and the tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa. Imam ul Haq took to social media to share his emotions. Expressing disappointment but staying hopeful.
He wrote:
“Not the outcome I expected but the journey isn’t over. This is how life is—it’s all about progress and becoming stronger with every obstacle. Patience and trust in Allah is the key!”
Imam ul Haq last appearance in an ODI was during the 2023 World Cup in India after which he was dropped. His most recent international match came in December 2023 when he played a Test against Australia in Melbourne scoring only 22 runs across two innings. Since then he has shined in domestic cricket putting up outstanding performances in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2024-25 while representing Multan Region.
His consistent form even earned him the captaincy of Pakistan Shaheens against the visiting West Indies side leading many to believe he was close to a national team comeback. However the selectors chose to leave him out once again.
Instead the selection panel preferred Fakhar Zaman and Usman Khan at the top order alongside experienced players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Pakistan’s fast bowling attack will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi with support from Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf. In the spin department Abrar Ahmed remains the only specialist while Agha Salman and Khushdil Shah provide extra options.
Read more: Pakistan squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Saim Ayub going to miss the event
This squad will also compete in the tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa which will help them prepare for the Champions Trophy. The tournament begins on February 19 with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. Meanwhile the highly anticipated Pakistan vs India clash is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai.
