Saim Ayub has been ruled out of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 due to an ankle injury sustained in January. His recovery is expected to take at least five weeks, which also raises doubts about his participation in the subsequent series against New Zealand. The PCB reports his rehabilitation is ongoing in England.
Pakistan’s opening batter Saim Ayub will miss the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 due to a severe ankle injury sustained during the January tour of South Africa. His recovery is projected to last at least another five weeks, effectively ruling him out of the tournament, which ends on March 9. The status of his participation in the subsequent white-ball series against New Zealand in March and April remains uncertain.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed Ayub is “progressing well in his right ankle fracture injury” while he undergoes rehabilitation in England. The injury occurred while fielding in the second Test match against South Africa, necessitating a ten-week recovery period from the date of injury. Early expectations for his return have since been revised.
The incident unfolded in the seventh over of the Test match as Ayub pursued a ball edged by Ryan Rickelton. In attempting to field it, he lost his footing and twisted his ankle, resulting in immediate pain and loss of mobility. Following medical intervention, he was unable to bear weight on his injured ankle, leading to him being stretchered off the field and later seen on crutches.
Initially, the PCB had hoped for Ayub’s recovery within six weeks; however, the decision was made to exclude him from the squad for the Champions Trophy due to the severity of the injury. Beyond the Champions Trophy, Pakistan is set to visit New Zealand for a series of T20Is and ODIs from March 16 to April 5, with Ayub’s participation still uncertain. The Pakistan Super League starts on April 8, adding further constraints to his return timeline.
Saim Ayub’s ankle injury occurred during a high-stakes match in the second Test against South Africa. Fielding injuries, especially those involving the ankle, can significantly impact a player’s ability to compete in upcoming tournaments due to extended recovery periods. The 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is a key event, challenging the team’s depth and Ayub’s absence is a notable loss for Pakistan cricket. Ayub’s situation exemplifies the challenge athletes face in managing injuries amid busy international schedules.
In summary, Saim Ayub is set to miss the Champions Trophy due to an ankle injury sustained earlier this year, with an uncertain timeline for his return affecting future series. The PCB has acknowledged his rehabilitation progress, but it remains clear that this injury poses a significant obstacle in the lead-up to critical matches for Pakistan cricket.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
