The return of an ICC event to Pakistan after nearly three decades did not commence under favourable circumstances. Opener Fakhar Zaman experienced an injury scare during the inaugural match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday. Just two deliveries into Shaheen Shah Afridi's opening over, New Zealand's Will Young struck a shot through the covers. Zaman, positioned at mid-off, attempted to intercept the ball and dived to prevent it from reaching the boundary, while the New Zealand pair completed a third run. Unfortunately, he landed awkwardly, seemingly injuring his knee or back in the process.

In evident distress, Fakhar opted to leave the field immediately and received attention from the physiotherapist on the sidelines. Kamran Ghulam took his place as a substitute fielder.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reported that Fakhar sustained a "muscular sprain." "Fakhar Zaman is currently being assessed for a muscular sprain, and further updates will be provided in due course," stated the PCB.

Fakhar has a history of injuries, having previously undergone knee surgery and faced hamstring issues that sidelined him in the past.

"He is off the field and appears quite disheartened. This is unfortunate. If Fakhar Zaman, a key player for Pakistan in ODIs, has sustained an injury, it would be a significant setback," remarked Ramiz Raja during the commentary.

"This is an extraordinary situation. It is incredibly unlucky. Fakhar Zaman has been in excellent form. If he is unable to perform his batting duties later in the day, it would be a substantial loss for Pakistan. They must rally together, as this will undoubtedly cause concern," added Ian Smith.

Pakistan holds the title of defending champion, having triumphed over their longstanding rival India in the final of the Champions Trophy during its last occurrence in 2017.

India will conduct all its group matches in the United Arab Emirates, including the highly anticipated match against Pakistan on Sunday, as the Indian government has prohibited the players from travelling to Pakistan.

The last major ICC event hosted by Pakistan was the 1996 World Cup, which was co-hosted with India and Sri Lanka.

New Zealand is currently in high spirits and is well-acquainted with the conditions at the newly renovated Karachi stadium, following their victory in the tri-nation series against Pakistan and South Africa last week.

Despite the absence of two key fast bowlers, Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears, due to injuries, New Zealand has prepared effectively for the Champions Trophy, with all top-order batsmen in good form. The Black Caps' spin attack, spearheaded by Mitchell Santner's left-arm spin, has successfully restricted opponents during the middle overs.

New Zealand will also be without opening batsman Rachin Ravindra for the first match, as he is still recovering from a forehead injury sustained during the opening game of the tri-nation series in Lahore, one of the three cities hosting the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

Pakistan's fast bowler Haris Rauf, who was sidelined for the last two matches of the tri-nation series due to a side strain, has successfully passed a fitness test and has been reinstated in place of all-rounder Faheem Ashraf.

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