During Pakistan’s New Year Test match against South Africa in Cape Town, batsman Saim Ayub suffered an ankle injury. In a significant update on the gifted batter’s fitness, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that he will miss ten weeks of play. According to the PCB’s most recent announcement, which was made public on Friday, February 7, Ayub is essentially disqualified from the upcoming Champions Trophy and any prospective roster alterations before to the February 11 deadline.
On January 10, Saim Ayub sustained the injury while fielding on Day 1 of the Cape Town Test.
He injured his ankle after losing his footing while chasing a delivery struck by Ryan Rickelton. After determining the extent of the injuries, doctors recommended a lengthy recuperation period.
“After suffering a fracture to his right ankle, Pakistani opener Saim Ayub is making good progress and will continue his recuperation in England. After thorough MRI scans, X-rays, and medical evaluations, Saim has been declared out for 10 weeks starting on January 3rd. “He must pass all fitness tests and medical requirements before he can join the New Zealand tour,” the PCB statement said.
Prior to Pakistan’s crucial visit of New Zealand, which is set for March 16–April 5, during which the two cricketing titans will play three ODIs and five T20Is, the PCB is optimistic that Ayub will be fully recovered. The southpaw must, however, complete the required fitness tests and medical assessments in order to participate in that series.
“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.”
Prior to the injury, the Southpaw had been playing at an incredible level. He had slammed two hundred in South Africa. The 22-year-old has represented Pakistan in 27 T20Is, 9 ODIs, and 8 Test matches. In the 50-over format, where he averages an incredible 64.38 with a strike rate of 105.54, he has shown his best form. Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel would have to open the innings alongside Fakhar Zaman since Ayub is not included in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy roster.