Pakistan’s Saim Ayub Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy Due to Injury

Young Pakistan opener Saim Ayub has been officially ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after being advised a 10-week rehabilitation period to recover from an ankle injury sustained during the South Africa tour in January.

PCB Confirms Saim Ayub’s Injury Update

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Friday that the 22-year-old left-handed opener is progressing well in his recovery and will continue 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 (January 3). His availability for the New Zealand tour will be subject to clearing all fitness tests and medical requirements,” the PCB stated.

How Did Saim Ayub Get Injured?

Saim sustained the ankle fracture while fielding on the first day of the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town. The injury has now forced him to miss one of Pakistan’s biggest ICC tournaments.

Will Saim Ayub Play Against New Zealand?

Pakistan is set to tour New Zealand for a five-match T20I and three-match ODI series from March 16 to April 5, followed by the Pakistan Super League (PSL) starting on April 8. However, his participation in the New Zealand series depends on whether he clears fitness tests.

A Major Setback for Pakistan Cricket

Saim Ayub has been one of Pakistan’s top batsmen in recent overseas tours, scoring:
Back-to-back ODI centuries in South Africa
A T20 century in Zimbabwe

His absence is a huge blow for Pakistan ahead of the Champions Trophy, but fans will be hoping for his swift recovery before the New Zealand series and PSL 2025.

Stay tuned for more updates on Saim Ayub’s recovery and Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy!