Imam-ul-Haq posts cryptic message after Champions Trophy snub

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Pakistan’s left-handed opener Imam-ul-Haq has responded to his exclusion from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad with a cryptic social media post, sparking speculation among fans and analysts.

Taking to his social media accounts, Imam expressed his disappointment and resilience, writing:

"Not the outcome I expected, but the journey isn’t over. This is how life is—it’s all about growth and getting stronger with every hurdle. Patience and trust in Allah is the key!"

His post came shortly after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy and the tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa, leaving him out despite his strong domestic performances.

Imam last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup in India and was later dropped from the squad. His last international appearance came in December 2023, during a Test match against Australia in Melbourne, where he managed just 22 runs in two innings.

Following his omission, Imam returned to domestic cricket and delivered outstanding performances in the recently concluded Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2024-25, representing Multan Region.

His performances earned him the captaincy of Pakistan Shaheens against the touring West Indian side, raising expectations that he might return to the national squad. However, selectors opted to exclude him once again.

While Imam’s omission has raised eyebrows, the selectors seem to have preferred Fakhar Zaman and Usman Khan in the top order alongside Rizwan and Babar Azam.

The pace attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi, with Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf completing the quartet. The only specialist spinner in the squad is Abrar Ahmed, while Agha Salman and Khushdil Shah provide additional spin options.

This squad will also compete in a tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa, serving as preparation for the Champions Trophy.

The tournament kicks off on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. The much-anticipated Pakistan vs India clash is set for February 23 in Dubai.

Key fixtures:

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