Champions Trophy 2025: PCB provides crucial update on Saim Ayub's injury status
Saim Ayub sustained an ankle injury during Pakistan's New Year Test against South Africa in Cape Town.
Batter Saim Ayub sustained an ankle injury during Pakistan's New Year Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided a key update regarding the fitness of the talented batter, confirming that he will be out of action for 10 weeks. The PCB's latest statement, released on Friday, February 7, effectively rules Ayub out of the forthcoming Champions Trophy and any potential changes to the provisional squad before the February 11 deadline.
Ayub picked up the injury while fielding on Day 1 of the Cape Town Test on January 10, when he lost his balance chasing a delivery hit by Ryan Rickelton and twisted his ankle. Doctors assessed the extent of the injury and advised an extended period of rehabilitation.
"Pakistan opener Saim Ayub is progressing well in his recovery from a right ankle fracture and will continue his rehabilitation in England. Following comprehensive MRI scans, X-rays, and medical assessments, Saim has been ruled out for 10 weeks from the date of injury (3 January). His availability for the New Zealand tour will be subject to clearing all fitness tests and medical requirements," the PCB statement read.
The PCB is hopeful that Ayub will regain full fitness ahead of Pakistan's important tour of New Zealand, scheduled from March 16 to April 5, where the two cricketing giants will compete in five T20Is and three ODIs. However, the southpaw's involvement in that series will depend on passing the necessary fitness tests and medical evaluations.
"Pakistan will tour New Zealand for five T20Is and three ODIs from 16 March to 5 April, which will be followed by the HBL Pakistan Super League, which starts on 8 April."
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The Southpaw had been in scintillating form before he suffered the injury. In South Africa, he had slammed two centuries. The 22-year-old has played eight Tests, nine ODIs, and 27 T20Is for Pakistan. His most impressive performances have come in the 50-over format, where he averages a staggering 64.38 with a strike rate of 105.54. Ayub's absence in Pakistan's Champions Trophy squad will force either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel to open the innings with Fakhar Zaman.
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