The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided an update on top-order batter Saim Ayub, who is recovering from a right ankle fracture. Ayub has been inactive since his injury on January 3 and is expected to need at least another month to recover.
Ayub is currently rehabilitating in England, where he is making good progress. Following detailed medical evaluations, including MRI scans and X-rays, he has been advised a recovery period of 10 weeks from the date of his injury.
The PCB has noted that Ayub’s return to competitive cricket, particularly for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, will depend on his successful completion of all prescribed fitness tests and medical benchmarks. The New Zealand tour, featuring five T20Is and three ODIs, is scheduled from March 16 to April 5, closely followed by the Pakistan Super League starting April 8.
Saim Ayub’s Exclusion from the Champions Trophy
Due to the timing of his recovery, Ayub was also ruled out of the Champions Trophy squad. Given his importance to the national team, his long-term health was prioritized. The Champions Trophy will be hosted in Pakistan and Dubai, and India’s matches will be held in Dubai.
Ayub sustained the injury while fielding during a Test match against South Africa in Cape Town. After the incident, he was promptly sent to London for specialized medical care.
Read: Pakistan Champions Trophy Squad: Controversy Over Saim Ayub Replacement
The PCB remains committed to ensuring Ayub’s full recovery. It intends not to rush his return to the field, emphasizing the importance of his health and future contributions to the team.
