PCB Provides Major Update on Saim Ayub Injury and Recovery

Pakistan batter Saim Ayub suffered an ankle injury during the New Year Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The PCB has now put forward an update related to the treatment of Ayub, announcing that he is expected to remain absent for the next 10 weeks. He is likely to miss the next edition of the Champions Trophy and may not be drafted in any changed squads before 11 February.

The injury happened on the first day of the Cape Town Test, January 10, while Ayub was fielding. Chasing a shot from Ryan Rickelton, he lost his balance and twisted his ankle. Doctors suggested a long rehab period for the medical assessments to ensure a full recovery.

"Pakistan opener Saim Ayub is progressing well in his recovery from a right ankle fracture and will continue his rehabilitation in England. Following comprehensive MRI scans, X-rays, and medical assessments, Saim has been ruled out for 10 weeks from the date of injury (3 January). His availability for the New Zealand tour will be subject to clearing all fitness tests and medical requirements," PCB released a statement on Saim Ayub’s recovery.

Saim Ayub Injury: A Setback Amidst Red-Hot Form

The PCB is confident that Ayub will be fit enough to join the squad for Pakistan's crucial tour of New Zealand which begins on the 16th of March and ends on the 5th of April. They will play five T20Is and three ODIs. However, it will be based on his fitness and medical examination.

Ayub was in top form at the time of his injury, he had scored two centuries in South Africa. The 22-year-old has so far represented Pakistan in eight Tests, nine ODIs and 27 T20Is. His finest shows have been in ODIs, in which he has made an average of 64.38 with a strike rate of 105.54. As Ayub is not available for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy, either Babar Azam or Saud Shakeel can open the innings along with Fakhar Zaman.