‘Led to weight loss of ten kilos and…’ - Pakistan batter reveals worrying health details ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistani batter Fakhar Zaman is set for return to international cricket during the upcoming Champions Trophy tournament. The 34-year-old has been included in the Pakistani squad for the coming tournament in place of Saim Ayub who was injured recently. The 34-year-old was speaking on a podcast to former skipper Salman Butt where he revealed his recent health struggles. 

The 34-year-old said, “Anyone can fall sick. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which led to a weight loss of 10 kg and weakened my muscles. This was the only reason I was out of the team there was nothing else. I am fully fit now, but the first four to five matches in domestic cricket were tough, and I felt as if I had forgotten how to play."

During the course of the same podcast, Zaman said that Babar Azam will do a good job as an opener. “I will try my best to make this Champions Trophy even more memorable for myself and the team. I believe he will perform well as an opener and make things easier for me," he said.

Pakistan set for a huge series ahead of Champions Trophy

Defending Champions Trophy winners, Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the first match of the Tri-Series on Saturday. South Africa are the third team in the tournament as the entire tournament is set to be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Pakistan and New Zealand are in the same group with India and Bangladesh. 

South Africa on the other hand are clubbed in the same group as Australia, Afghanistan, and England. The Proteas have been dealt with a massive blow just before the tournament begins. Fast bowler Gerald Coetzee has been ruled out of the series and also Champions Trophy 2025 tournament due to groin injury. 

Mohammad Rizwan will lead the hosts with the likes of Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah part of the bowling unit. Mitchell Santner is the captain of the Kiwi side which has experienced stars like Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell part of the side. Bowling will be led by Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry with Santner spearheading the spin department.