Reports: Fakhar Zaman pondering retirement after central contract snub by PCB

If reports are to be believed, flamboyant batter Fakhar Zaman is set to bid farewell to international cricket after being ignored by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) while announcing the list of centrally contracted players. Fakhar's name is also missing from Pakistan's white-ball squads for Australia and Zimbabwe tours.

Sources close to the experienced batter reveal that his morale has been adversely affected by the selectors snubbing him, as well as what he believes as inconsistent fitness evaluations benchmarks.

Fakhar was scheduled to partake in another fitness test in January 2025, but doubts are arising over perceived double standards in the selection process. Reportedly, Fakhar couldn't finish the two-kilometer run in the designated eight minutes due to a knee problem. However, another player, Usman Khan, received a contract and a spot in the squads for Australia and Zimbabwe tours despite failing to go beyond the third lap of his fitness test.

Also Check: Pakistan announce squad for Australia series; Babar and Shaheen return, Fakhar Zaman dropped

It is important to note that Fakhar was in the B category last year. Some well-placed sources within cricket circles believe that Fakhar publicly offering words of support to Babar Azam, through a tweet on 'X' didn't help his cause. The 34-year-old is yet to make a final decision regarding his retirement. Close friends have advised him to refrain from making an emotional decision, reminding him of his value to the Pakistan team and how well he can do for the team in the years to come.

Discrepancies in treatment of other players