The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued an important fitness update regarding opening batsman Saim Ayub, confirming that he is making steady progress in his recovery from a right ankle injury. However, the PCB has confirmed that Ayub will remain sidelined for a period of 10 weeks due to the injury sustained during Pakistan’s New Year’s Test against South Africa in Cape Town.
Ayub’s injury occurred on January 10, the first day of the second Test match, when he twisted his ankle while fielding. The injury was later diagnosed as a fracture after extensive medical evaluations, including MRI scans and X-rays. As a result, Ayub was ruled out of the upcoming Champions Trophy, which will take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
In a statement released on February 7, the PCB confirmed that Ayub’s rehabilitation will continue in England, where he is receiving specialized care. The statement added that Ayub is expected to be out for 10 weeks, starting from the date of his injury (January 3). His potential availability for Pakistan’s upcoming tour of New Zealand, scheduled for March 16 to April 5, will be subject to him passing all necessary fitness tests and medical assessments.
“The PCB remains optimistic about Ayub’s recovery and hopes he will be fit in time for the New Zealand tour, which will feature five T20Is and three ODIs. However, his participation in the series will depend on his fitness clearance,” the PCB statement read.
Ayub, who had been in exceptional form prior to his injury, was a standout performer during Pakistan’s recent tour of South Africa, scoring two centuries. Following the injury, he was flown to London for specialized orthopedic treatment. Initially reliant on crutches and a moon boot, Ayub’s rehabilitation has shown positive progress.
The PCB also noted that Ayub’s return to competitive cricket will be closely monitored, especially with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) scheduled to begin on April 8. Ayub had previously gained significant attention during the 2021 PSL, further heightening anticipation for his return.
As Ayub recovers, Pakistan will look to Fakhar Zaman, alongside Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel, to open the batting during the pre-tournament tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa before the Champions Trophy.
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