Imam and Fakhar Expected to Rejoin Pakistan for South Africa Series
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- November 6, 2024
- 11:21 am
- 24
- Sports
Pakistan's upcoming tour to South Africa is drawing attention as the team looks to revamp its opening lineup. Familiar faces Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq are expected to return, aiming to strengthen the top order. This move is intended to bring stability and experience to the team as they prepare for a busy schedule, including T20Is, ODIs, and Tests.
Fakhar Zaman’s Rehabilitation Journey
Fakhar’s return to the squad hinges on his ongoing rehabilitation program, set to begin in late November. Following fitness issues and a social media controversy that led to disciplinary actions, the PCB has offered Fakhar a second chance to prove himself. “Fakhar was sidelined primarily due to fitness issues, failing three fitness tests, but there were also disciplinary matters concerning a post he made in support of Babar Azam,” revealed a PCB insider. To earn his spot, Fakhar must complete a structured rehab program and pass a fitness test. If he clears this hurdle,
his name may feature in the team’s lineup for the South Africa series—and he could even secure a Category C central contract.
Imam-ul-Haq: Adding Stability to the Top Order
Imam-ul-Haq’s return brings much-needed consistency to Pakistan’s ODI lineup. With a solid ODI average nearing 50, Imam has been a reliable performer and last played during the 2023 ICC World Cup. His experience and steady approach make him a dependable opener, especially for the ODIs. His comeback aims to strengthen the batting lineup, which has seen some fluctuation in recent months.
Challenges for Current Openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique
In a recent series, young openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique struggled to cement their spots. While both showed flashes of potential, inconsistency has been an issue. Shafique’s recent struggles in the ODI series against Australia highlighted the need for more dependable options. Although Ayub has shown promise with three half-centuries in his last 10 matches, his contributions often fall short. As Pakistan heads to South Africa, the PCB seems intent on bringing in Fakhar and Imam to add stability to the opening positions.
Fakhar’s Chance at Redemption
Fakhar’s comeback carries extra significance due to his recent absence and the circumstances surrounding it. A social media post supporting Babar Azam saw Fakhar receive a show-cause notice from the PCB, and he has since worked to resolve the matter. "Starting a player’s rehab is a clear signal that he’s acknowledged his misstep,” added the source. Completing his rehab would mark a step toward redeeming himself, offering him the chance to secure a spot in the lineup for South Africa.
South Africa Tour: Pakistan’s Schedule and Goals
Pakistan’s South Africa tour kicks off with three T20Is in Durban, Centurion, and Johannesburg from December 10 to 14. The ODIs follow from December 17 to 22 across Paarl, Cape Town, and Johannesburg. The two-Test series, part of the World Test Championship cycle, wraps up from December 26 to January 7 in Centurion and Cape Town. This packed schedule will challenge Pakistan’s squad depth and performance consistency across formats.
Fakhar’s Memorable 2021 Series
Fakhar’s last tour to South Africa left a lasting mark. His 2021 performances—where he racked up 302 runs in three ODIs—were instrumental in Pakistan’s 2-1 series win. The possibility of his return has fans hopeful that he can deliver similar heroics this time around.
As Pakistan prepares for a tough schedule, the returns of Imam and Fakhar bring optimism to the lineup. The duo’s experience could be crucial in achieving a well-rounded performance against a strong South African side.
