Mohammad Rizwan Backs Fakhar Zaman as Game-Changer
Fakhar Zaman's ability to perform under pressure and his records in the PSL highlight his value to the team, with his recent performances against tough opponents demonstrating his skill and dedication to the sport, making him a key player to watch in upcoming matches.
Pakistan ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan has expressed his support for batsman Fakhar Zaman, calling him a "game-changer" for the national team, despite recent setbacks including an injury that ruled him out of the 2025 Champions Trophy and Pakistan's white-ball tour of New Zealand.
Fakhar Zaman recently made his international comeback in the ODI tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa, scoring 135 runs in three matches at an average of 45 and a strike-rate of 120.53. His performance demonstrated his potential to significantly impact the team's success. Currently, Zaman is playing for the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he has scored 144 runs in three matches, further showcasing his capabilities.
Notably, Fakhar Zaman has equalled Mohammad Rizwan's record of 20 half-centuries in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), making him the second player to achieve this feat after Babar Azam. This milestone places Fakhar second in the list of players with the most half-centuries in PSL history, tied with Mohammad Rizwan. His recent form has been impressive, including a 67-run performance off 39 balls for Lahore Qalandars against Quetta Gladiators, which helped his team secure a 79-run victory.
Former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja has also praised Fakhar Zaman's form, stating that it is crucial for Lahore Qalandars' success in PSL X. Raja believes that Fakhar's performances have the ability to lift the team out of difficult situations, thereby allowing other players like Shaheen Shah Afridi to excel in their roles, such as bowling. Raja specifically highlighted Shaheen's impressive performance of taking two wickets in an over, which significantly challenges the opposition's ability to chase large totals.
The support from Mohammad Rizwan and the analysis from Ramiz Raja underscore the importance of Fakhar Zaman's role in both the national team and the Lahore Qalandars. As the cricket season progresses, Zaman's continued form and health will be critical factors in determining the success of Pakistan in international competitions and the Lahore Qalandars in the PSL.