Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has confirmed that the board is taking a careful approach to the recovery of young batting star Saim Ayub, prioritizing his long-term health over short-term tournaments like the Champions Trophy. With Ayub sidelined due to a fractured ankle, Naqvi reassured fans that the PCB will not rush his rehabilitation process.
“Due to the Champions Trophy, we cannot risk Saim Ayub’s career,” Naqvi said, emphasizing the need for a careful recovery. The plaster on Ayub’s foot is expected to be removed in the next couple of days, and he is currently undergoing rehabilitation.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi recently shared insights from a conversation with Ayub, confirming that the 22-year-old cricketer would miss the upcoming tournament. Afridi advised Ayub not to rush his recovery, emphasizing that even minor injuries can develop into long-term issues if not properly healed.
Ayub, who debuted for Pakistan in March 2023, has quickly become one of the team’s brightest prospects. He has made a significant mark in ODIs, scoring three centuries and a half-century in just nine matches. His most notable performance came during Pakistan’s 3-0 whitewash of South Africa, where he was named Player of the Series for his two centuries.
However, his momentum was halted when he suffered a fractured right ankle during the Cape Town Test against South Africa. This injury has kept him out for six weeks, causing him to miss Pakistan’s ongoing Test series against the West Indies as well as the upcoming tri-nation series featuring New Zealand and South Africa.
The PCB had delayed the announcement of the squad for the Champions Trophy, as the situation with Ayub’s recovery remained uncertain. As other teams announced their squads, the PCB waited for Ayub’s fitness update before finalizing their team selection.
The PCB is expected to announce the squads for both the Tri-Nation Series and Champions Trophy 2025 after the ongoing second Test match between Pakistan and the West Indies in Multan. While Ayub’s inclusion is now deemed unlikely due to his injury, Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq are reportedly being considered for the opening slot alongside Fakhar Zaman.
Ayub’s form in the 50-over format has earned him a spot in the ICC ODI Team of the Year 2024, alongside Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz, with Sri Lanka’s Charith Asalanka serving as the captain. Additionally, Ayub is nominated for the prestigious ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year award, with the winner set to be announced today.
