Hailing from the city of Mardan, Fakhar Zaman made his first List A appearance in 2012. He spent several years playing domestic cricket, consistently scoring runs yet remaining largely unnoticed. However, in the 2016-17 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Zaman amassed over 600 runs at an average of 51, finally drawing attention to his talent.
Zaman's breakthrough came when he secured a contract with the Lahore franchise in the Pakistan Super League. His impressive performances in the PSL led to his selection for Pakistan's T20I squad for the 2017 tour of the West Indies. Although he didn't make a significant impact during that series, the selectors recognized his potential and included him in the squad for the 2017 Champions Trophy. Zaman seized this opportunity, delivering scores of 31, 50, 57, and a remarkable 114 in the final against India, helping Pakistan secure the title and earning widespread acclaim.
In 2018, Zaman was named in the Pakistan Test squad for the tours of Ireland and England, though he did not play. His 91 against Australia in the tri-series final in July helped Pakistan clinch the T20I trophy. Shortly after, during a five-match ODI series, Zaman made history. He scored Pakistan's first double century in ODIs, became the first Pakistani batter to score 500 runs in a five-match ODI series, and was the fastest player to reach 1,000 ODI runs. His success in limited-overs cricket prompted the selectors to give him a chance in Test cricket. On his debut against Australia in Abu Dhabi, Zaman scored 94 and 66. However, his technique was tested in more challenging conditions in South Africa, where he struggled.
The Navy sailor-turned-cricketer continued to break records with his aggressive batting. In 2021, he scored 193 in the second ODI against South Africa, the then-highest individual ODI score while chasing. After a steady start in the PSL, Zaman excelled during Lahore Qalandars' triumphant 2022 campaign, finishing as the highest run-scorer and recording the most 50-plus scores in a single season. He continued his form in the following season, leading the run charts for Lahore Qalandars as they defended their title.
Zaman's performances earned him a spot in Pakistan's squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. Although he didn't start the tournament, he made a significant impact when given the opportunity. Despite Pakistan's disappointing campaign, highlighted by a loss to Afghanistan and an early exit, Zaman's explosive match-winning innings against New Zealand, featuring 11 sixes, was a standout moment.
Looking ahead to the 2024 T20 World Cup, Zaman is poised to play a key role for Pakistan as they aim for their second T20 World Cup title. Known for his ability to turn games around, Zaman remains a player to watch, capable of dismantling any bowling attack on his day.
PAKISTAN
