Fakhar Zaman explains why Test cricket is not his priority

LAHORE: Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has insisted that specialist red-ball batters deserve opportunities ahead of him in the Test side, despite describing the longest format as the one closest to his heart.

During a recent interview alongside former Pakistan captain Salman Butt on the PCB's Straight Drive podcast, the experienced left-hander also rejected the notion that age determines a cricketer's effectiveness, arguing that experienced batters often produce their best performances after turning 30.

"I think we emphasise age a bit too much. Personally, I feel that I never hide while fielding, nor does any captain try to hide me; I am always sent to the fielding hotspots," Zaman said.

"Age doesn't have that much of a connection with it; it's all about how you carry yourself, how you train, and whether you can compete with the youngsters coming into the team," he added.

He explained that players who maintain their fitness, adapt their training routines and develop a deeper understanding of their game are more likely to reach their peak after turning 30, when they are better equipped to handle the mental and technical demands of international cricket.

"I personally believe that, especially for batters, if they take care of themselves and carry themselves well, their real peak begins after the age of 30. That is when you truly understand what cricket actually is and how to manage yourself," he stated.

Despite describing red-ball cricket as "closest to my heart", Fakhar said he believes Pakistan have stronger options for the longest format and does not wish to take their place.

"To be honest, I like red-ball cricket a lot. But if you ask me what is closest to my heart, it is definitely red-ball cricket. While my favourite format is ODI cricket, I really love red-ball cricket—both playing it and watching it," he said.

The left-hander, who has played just three Test matches, has scored 192 runs at an average of 32.00, including two half-centuries. He said he reached that conclusion after discussions with the coaching staff.

Fakhar featured in two Tests against South Africa and one against Australia but has not represented Pakistan in the longest format since 2019.

"I have actually played three Test matches. Even though I later spoke to the coaches and they told me that I should play Test cricket, personally, I believe there are better players than me in the format who have performed much better than I have in domestic cricket and are better suited to the Pakistan team.

"So, let those guys play. Why should I take their spot?"

Fakhar clarified that he does not view the decision as a sacrifice but rather as an honest assessment of where he can contribute most effectively.

"I know I am suited to ODIs, so obviously I should be there. But if I feel that there are better players than me for Test cricket who can perform well for the Pakistan team over a longer period, then they should be the ones playing," he concluded.