In the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final, Fakhar Zaman scripted one of the most memorable innings in the tournament’s history. The Pakistani opener, relatively new to international cricket at the time, went from almost sitting out the final to playing a match-winning knock that etched his name in cricketing folklore.
Ahead of the title clash against arch-rivals India at The Oval, Fakhar was uncertain about his place in the playing XI. Pakistan’s journey in the tournament had been a rollercoaster, and despite a strong comeback after an opening defeat, team selection debates persisted. However, when given the opportunity, the left-hander made full use of it, delivering a career-defining performance when it mattered most.
Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan got off to a cautious start. Fakhar, alongside Azhar Ali, laid a strong foundation, but his innings almost ended early. In a pivotal moment, he was caught behind off a Jasprit Bumrah delivery in the fourth over. However, fortune favored him as Bumrah had overstepped, and the delivery was ruled a no-ball. Given a second chance, Fakhar capitalized brilliantly, shifting gears and taking the attack to the Indian bowlers.
Displaying fearless stroke play, he took on India’s formidable bowling lineup, smashing 114 runs off just 106 balls. His innings, laced with 12 boundaries and three sixes, was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He particularly dominated spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, using his footwork effectively and finding gaps with precision.
Fakhar’s century not only powered Pakistan to a commanding total of 338/4 but also set the stage for their eventual victory. His knock demoralized India’s bowlers and provided the platform for Pakistan’s middle order to accelerate in the latter overs. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Amir’s fiery spell, then dismantled India’s strong batting lineup, bundling them out for just 158 runs to seal a historic 180-run victory.
This innings marked a turning point in Fakhar Zaman’s career. From being a promising yet untested talent, he emerged as Pakistan’s new batting hero. His fearless approach and ability to perform under pressure earned him widespread recognition, and he became a vital part of Pakistan’s white-ball setup in the years to follow.
Fakhar’s journey in the 2017 Champions Trophy exemplifies the unpredictability and magic of cricket. From almost missing out on playing in the final to delivering one of the most iconic innings in the tournament’s history, his performance remains a defining moment in Pakistan’s cricketing legacy.