Imam-ul-Haq was excluded from Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad, raising speculation over his future in international cricket. Despite a promising domestic season, the selectors favored middle-order strength, resulting in his absence from the final 15-man lineup.

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq expressed his disappointment through a cryptic post after being excluded from the national squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Despite speculation about his inclusion due to Saim Ayub’s injury, the selectors opted for a different strategy that emphasized middle-order strength over additional opening options. Consequently, Fakhar Zaman was included alongside Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel as leading openers, leaving Imam on the sidelines.

Imam-ul-Haq’s exclusion comes after a period of fluctuating form and position on the team. He last played in an ODI on October 27, 2023, against South Africa, and has since shifted his attention to domestic cricket. His notable performance in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, where he secured the third-highest runs, indicates a potential for redemption, but the PCB’s latest decisions suggest competition remains fierce within the squad.

In conclusion, Imam-ul-Haq’s social media post reflects the challenges faced by athletes in professional sports. The composition of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy squad prioritizes middle-order depth, potentially at the expense of experienced players like Imam. His recent performance in domestic cricket demonstrates resilience, suggesting that his journey in professional cricket is far from over.

Original Source: sports.ndtv.com