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Pakistan had to tweak their batting lineup in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against New Zealand. Instead of their regular opener, Fakhar Zaman, the team sent Saud Shakeel to start the innings alongside Babar Azam in their chase of a 321-run target set by the Black Caps.
Reason behind Fakhar Zaman’s absence as opener for Pakistan
This alteration was not a strategic move but a mandatory adjustment, as Fakhar was compelled to stay off the field for a minimum of 25 minutes due to an injury he sustained while fielding. Early in New Zealand’s innings, Fakhar attempted to intercept a shot from Will Young but ended up hurting himself, leading to his temporary absence from the field. As a result, he was subjected to a time restriction before being allowed to bat.
According to ICC regulations, if a player leaves the field for a significant period, they must remain off the field for an equivalent duration before resuming participation in the game. Fakhar had to serve a 25-minute waiting period before he could take his place in the batting lineup.
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Restrictions for players absent from the field
Notably, a player missing for over eight minutes faces certain limitations upon return. They are restricted from bowling until they have spent an equivalent amount of time on the field or their team has batted for the same duration. The maximum restriction time is capped at 120 minutes, with any remaining penalty time carrying over to the next innings. Likewise, a player cannot bat until the team’s innings has lasted for the amount of time equal to their unserved penalty. However, they can bat immediately if five wickets have fallen.
Will Young, Tom Latham powers New Zealand to a strong total
Speaking about New Zealand’s innings, the Mitchell Santner-led side posted 320/5 in their allotted 50 overs. Young and Tom Latham smashed tremendous centuries to power their team towards a strong total. While Young slammed 107 off 113 runs, Latham remained unbeaten on 118 from 104 balls.
