Lahore, February 7, 2025: Pakistan opening batter Saim Ayub has been officially ruled out of the Champions Trophy, as his rehabilitation from an ankle injury sustained in South Africa last month is expected to keep him sidelined for at least another five weeks. His participation in Pakistan’s subsequent white-ball series in New Zealand remains uncertain.
A statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that Ayub is “progressing well” in his recovery from a right ankle fracture, but he will be out for a total of 10 weeks from the time of his injury. He is currently in England, where he will complete the remainder of his rehabilitation.
Ayub suffered the injury while fielding in the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town five weeks ago. The incident occurred in the seventh over, when Ryan Rickelton’s edge toward deep third prompted a chase between Ayub and Aamer Jamal. As Jamal pulled the ball back in, Ayub, poised for a relay throw, lost his balance and twisted his ankle, collapsing in pain. Despite receiving on-field treatment, he was unable to put any weight on his right leg and had to be stretchered off. He was later seen on crutches in the medical booth.
Initially, the PCB estimated a six-week recovery timeline, sparking hopes of Ayub’s inclusion in the Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy. However, his continued absence led to his exclusion from Pakistan’s official squad announcement last week.
Pakistan’s next assignment after the Champions Trophy is a white-ball tour of New Zealand, featuring five T20Is and three ODIs from March 16 to April 5. His availability for this series remains in doubt, while the Pakistan Super League (PSL) kicks off on April 8.
