By Zainab Shafiq 
Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming white-ball series against New Zealand have been dealt a blow, as key opening batters Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub have been ruled out due to injuries. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Tuesday that both players remain unavailable for selection on medical grounds.
Saim Ayub, who suffered a right ankle fracture during Pakistan’s Test series against South Africa in January, continues to recover and was already excluded from the ICC Champions Trophy squad. Fakhar Zaman, meanwhile, was part of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad but sustained a left lower intercostal muscle sprain during the team’s opening match against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.
PCB’s medical team is closely monitoring their rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore. Despite missing the upcoming series, both players are expected to regain full fitness in time for the highly anticipated Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 10, which kicks off in Rawalpindi on April 11.
The absence of Fakhar and Saim means Pakistan will rely on alternative opening options as they gear up for a crucial tour of New Zealand. The five-match T20I series begins on March 16 and runs until March 26, with Salman Ali Agha leading the side and Shadab Khan serving as his deputy.
In the ODI format, Mohammad Rizwan will continue as captain, with Agha Salman appointed as vice-captain for the three-match series from March 29 to April 5. Pakistan’s squad for the tour includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, reflecting the team’s long-term strategy ahead of major tournaments such as the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
With the squad now finalised and two key players sidelined, Pakistan faces the challenge of adapting its batting lineup against a formidable New Zealand side. The upcoming series will serve as a crucial test for Pakistan’s depth and resilience as they continue their preparations for future international competitions.
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