Fakhar asks for two-month break

LAHORE: Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has sought a two-month break from cricket amid uncertainty over his selection for upcoming white-ball series against Australia.

Sources said the left-arm batter has submitted a request with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in this regard. Earlier, Zaman responded to a show-cause notice issued by the PCB over criticising the board’s decision to drop Babar Azam from the national team for Test match against England.

Sources had previously indicated that a decision regarding Zaman’s inclusion in the squad for the Australia tour will be made after reviewing his response. Zaman had previously expressed concerns on X about Babar’s exclusion from the second Test against England, stating it sent a negative message. He highlighted that India did not drop Virat Kohli despite his poor form from 2020 to 2023, urging the PCB to protect its players rather than make hasty decisions.