Fakhar Zaman drew criticism on social media after suggesting that Babar Azam should not be dropped from the Pakistan squad for the remaining Tests against England, despite his poor performance. The opener compared Babar's lean patch with Virat Kohli's tough period between 2020-2023, when he averaged only 19.33, 28.21, and 26.50. The post received negative responses from netizens and Babar was eventually dropped from the squad.
Fakhar Zaman, the power-hitting batter for Pakistan’s cricket team, recently admitted that their recent loss to Ireland has made them realize the need to adopt a more aggressive approach while batting in T20I games. Zaman mentioned that the team has set a target of 200-plus runs while batting first and that coach Gary Kirsten has quickly gelled with the team and has a friendly approach towards them. With the ICC World Cup approaching, Pakistan is looking to play with an aggressive mindset and aim for high scores.
New Zealand's pace bowler Adam Milne claimed four wickets to lead his team to a 21-run victory over Pakistan in the second Twenty20 international, giving them a 2-0 series lead. Pakistan's pursuit of New Zealand's 194-8 total was hampered by Babar Azam's dismissal for 66 and Fakhar Zaman's power-packed 50, as they were bowled out for 173. The Black Caps' triumph was marked by captain Kane Williamson's retirement due to a hamstring injury, casting doubt on his availability for the rest of the five-match series.