The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided an update on opening batter Saim Ayub, who is currently recovering from an ankle fracture. The young cricketer was ruled out of Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad after sustaining the injury during their tour of South Africa in December 2024.
Ayub’s fitness battle delayed Pakistan’s squad announcement for the ICC tournament. He will continue rehabilitation in England and remains sidelined for 10 weeks. His participation in the New Zealand tour post-Champions Trophy depends on his fitness test results.
“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’s statement read.
Saim Ayub was instrumental in Pakistan’s recent series whitewashes against Australia and South Africa following his debut in November 2024. The opening batter amassed 515 runs in nine innings at an impressive average of 64.38, registering three centuries in the process.
Pakistan’s Tour of New Zealand Set to Begin on March 16
Pakistan will first compete in a tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa before heading into the Champions Trophy 2025. Following the tournament, they are scheduled to tour New Zealand for a series of five T20Is and three ODIs, starting on March 16.
In their last visit to New Zealand, Pakistan endured a 1-4 defeat in the five-match T20I series, which was the only campaign led by Shaheen Shah Afridi as captain. Meanwhile, PSL franchise Peshawar Zalmi will closely monitor Saim Ayub’s recovery.
The young batter was the fifth-highest run-scorer in the 2024 season, amassing 345 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 157 during their playoff run. PSL 2025 is set to begin on April 8, coinciding with the IPL, as the usual February-March window is occupied by the Champions Trophy 2025.
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