Former Pakistan fast bowler Abdur Rouf used a social media post to criticise the national selection committee, raising questions over its judgement after reports that Fakhar Zaman had been declared injured prompted a call for an inquiry to the Pakistan Cricket Board.
“A day ago, our selection committee declared him injured and demanded an inquiry. What a great mind and visionary people we have to run our cricket,” Rouf wrote.
Abdur Rauf Bhai I was not 100% fit to play 50 over games. In that case Aqib Javed was right. I’m playing these games after clearing the fitness tests on 15th
— Fakhar Zaman (@FakharZamanLive) March 17, 2026
In a direct response, Fakhar Zaman sought to clarify the timeline of his recovery and defend the selection panel’s earlier position.
He said he had not been fully fit for the longer 50-over format at the time of the squad announcement and only returned to competitive cricket after passing the required fitness tests.
“Abdur Rouf Bhai, I was not 100 per cent fit to play 50-over games. In that case, Aaqib Javed was right. I am playing these games after clearing the fitness tests on the 15th,” he said.
The exchange ended on an amicable note, with Rouf praising Zaman’s effort on the field and stressing the importance of player welfare.
“Great catch anyway. No need to worry. We are here to support our players like you. Nothing is more important than you. I am deleting the post,” Rouf said.
