Amid PSL ball-tampering ban, Fakhar Zaman denies retirement, USA move talk

NEW DELHI: Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has dismissed speculation around his T20I future, firmly ruling out retirement and any plans of moving to the United States, according to a report on Tuesday. Social media had been abuzz with claims that Fakhar, who turns 36 on Friday, had shifted his family to the USA and was considering stepping away from T20 internationals. The rumours gained traction amid his ongoing two-match ban in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over ball-tampering charges.

Fitness concerns - including recurring injuries linked to hormone-related issues - further added to the speculation.

However, people close to the cricketer have rejected the claims.

“Fakhar is not at all retiring, and this he has conveyed to the Pakistan Cricket Board and the selection committee, nor is he leaving Pakistan,” sources close to the cricketer told Telecom Asia Sport on Tuesday.

Fakhar played two matches in the T20 World Cup, scoring 25 and 84 with his trademark aggression, showing no obvious signs of discomfort.

He later withdrew from the ODI squad for the Bangladesh tour due to fitness issues, which once again triggered reports that he could step away from T20Is to focus on the 50-over format.

Pakistan are not scheduled to play a T20I until October, when they host Sri Lanka, while their next ODI assignment is a home series against Australia in May-June.

Despite the chatter, Fakhar remains focused on his long-term goals.

“Fakhar is determined to play the 2028 T20I World Cup and is working on his fitness as well, and before that wishes to represent the country in the Los Angeles Olympics as Pakistan is likely to get a berth alongside India,” sources said.

Fakhar is currently serving a two-match ban following ball-tampering charges during a Lahore Qalandars match against Karachi Kings on March 29.

He had denied the allegations before match referee Roshan Mahanama, but his explanation was rejected, with a three-member Pakistan Cricket Board committee later upholding the ban after a hearing.