Fakhar Zaman has dismissed all ongoing reports regarding his retirement, confirming his intent to return from injury within a month. The 2017 Champions Trophy hero suffered an oblique strain while fielding against New Zealand in Pakistan’s opening match, forcing him to bat at No. 4 instead of opening. Struggling with the injury, he managed just 24 off 41 balls in a 60-run loss. Given his age—turning 35 in April—speculation arose that it could have been his last game.However, Fakhar clarified to PCB Digital, "I heard about this [retirement rumours] a lot and even my friends messaged me about it, but there's nothing to it. The ODI format is my favorite format. Yes with my thyroid, there was a thing that I could take more time getting back into it. But I want to play T20s, ODIs, even Tests again. As far as my comeback is concerned, I spoke to the doctor and I can start playing cricket again within the month." Despite previous tensions with the PCB over contracts and selection policies, Fakhar remains committed to Pakistan cricket. He added, "The doctor says I can resume training in three weeks, so I should be back playing within a month." Read also: Mitchell Starc Prioritizes WTC Final, Set for IPL with DC What did reports say? Pakistan cricket is undergoing a turbulent phase, with their disappointing group-stage exit in the 2025 Champions Trophy adding to their woes. Amid the ongoing scrutiny faced by both the team and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), reports have earlier suggested that opener Fakhar Zaman is contemplating retirement from ODI cricket. As per a report by Samaa TV, Zaman has conveyed his decision to senior teammates during the tournament. He was quoted as saying, "Champions Trophy will be my last ICC event. I want to step away from ODI cricket.” Health concerns appear to be a key factor, as the 34-year-old, who suffers from hyperthyroidism, also sustained an injury in the opening game against New Zealand. Additionally, frustrations over Pakistan’s restrictive NOC policies for foreign leagues have fueled speculation about his potential move abroad. Zaman, who played 86 ODIs and famously struck a century in the 2017 Champions Trophy final, leaves behind a remarkable legacy.