Pakistan opening batter Saim Ayub will remain sidelined for at least another five weeks as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury sustained during Pakistan’s tour of South Africa in January.
His extended rehabilitation means he will miss the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy, which runs until March 9, and casts doubt on his availability for Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball series in New Zealand.
In a statement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed Ayub is “progressing well in his right ankle fracture injury” but remains in England to complete his rehabilitation.
The injury, sustained while fielding in the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town five weeks ago, has ruled him out for a total of 10 weeks.
Ayub’s injury occurred in the seventh over of the match when South African batter Ryan Rickelton edged a delivery toward deep third.
Sprinting alongside teammate Aamer Jamal in pursuit, Ayub prepared to act as the relay fielder but lost his balance and twisted his ankle.
He collapsed immediately, clutching his leg in visible pain.Despite receiving treatment on the sidelines, Ayub was unable to put any weight on his right ankle.
He was later seen in tears as he was stretchered off and taken to the medical booth, where he was spotted on crutches.
Initially, the PCB had projected a six-week recovery timeline, leaving a slim possibility for Ayub’s participation in the Champions Trophy.
However, when Pakistan’s squad for the tournament was announced last week, his name was absent, confirming his unavailability.
His participation in Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball tour of New Zealand, scheduled from March 16 to April 5, remains uncertain.
The team will play five T20Is and three ODIs before the Pakistan Super League kicks off on April 8.
For now, Ayub’s focus remains on his rehabilitation, with hopes of making a full recovery ahead of a packed cricketing calendar.
