PAK vs AUS, 2nd T20I: [Explained] Why Fakhar Zaman is not playing today’s match?

The exclusion of Fakhar Zaman from Pakistan’s playing XI for the second T20I against Australia has sparked widespread debate among fans and former cricketers. The match, being played at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, saw Pakistan win the toss and opt to bat first, but Fakhar’s absence was one of the biggest talking points even before the first ball was bowled.

No place for Fakhar Zaman in Pakistan’s playing XI

Fakhar Zaman was left out of the side following a disappointing performance in the series opener, where he managed just 10 runs off 16 deliveries.

Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has openly backed Fakhar, voicing his disagreement with the decision to drop the batter. Younis stressed that Fakhar’s true value lies at the top of the order and that his skill set is being underutilised when he is asked to bat lower down.

Younis confidently stated that if Fakhar is allowed to open the innings, he can guarantee explosive starts during the powerplay – arguably even more aggressive than Australia’s approach. According to him, Fakhar’s natural instincts and strokeplay are best suited for the opening role, where he can capitalise on fielding restrictions.

Younis further explained that pushing Fakhar down to No. 4 or No. 5 goes against the batter’s natural game. While some middle-order batters can adapt to opening, the reverse is often far more challenging.

He added that even if an opening slot is unavailable, Fakhar should ideally be slotted in at No. 3, a position where he has previously delivered match-winning performances for Pakistan.

Younis Khan Backs Fakhar Zaman, Urges Management to Restore His Natural Role 🇵🇰🏏

Fakhar Zaman remains a rare talent capable of winning matches single-handedly for Pakistan 🏏🔥, yet his impact is being diminished due to mismanagement of his role in the team.

Former Pakistan… pic.twitter.com/8v3OIZvU7s

— The Cricket🏏Village 🇬🇧🇵🇰🇦🇺🇮🇳🇿🇦🇧🇩🇱🇰 (@MSohailAfzal10) January 31, 2026

PAK vs AUS, 2nd T20I: Playing XI of both teams

Australia: Matthew Short, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh(c), Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (wk), Matt Renshaw, Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Sean Abbott, Matthew Kuhnemann, Adam Zampa

Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Agha(c), Babar Azam, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Usman Tariq.