Champions Trophy 2025: PCB provides huge update on Saim Ayub, Confirms Recovery Timeline

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided an update on the injury status of promising opener Saim Ayub, days ahead of the start of Champions Trophy 2025.

The left-handed batter suffered a right ankle fracture on January 3 during the Test series against South Africa.

Following comprehensive medical assessments, PCB says that, Ayub has been ruled out of competitive cricket for 10 weeks from the date of injury. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation in England.

"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," a statement from PCB read.

When will be Saim Ayub back?

This timeline places Ayub's potential return around mid-March, making his participation in the upcoming tour of New Zealand contingent upon passing all necessary fitness tests and medical evaluations.

Ayub's absence will be a big blow for Pakistan, who are vying for a strong performance in the Champions Trophy. The southpaw was in superb form and his injury hiatus will bring new challenges to the squad.

However, given the proximity of the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan, Ayub's inclusion in the squad remains unfeasible. Pakistan announced their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 which will be led by Mohammad Rizwan and they play the first match on February 19 against New Zealand.

Pakistan Squad for Champions Trophy 2025

Mohammad Rizwan (captain and wk), Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Usman Khan, Haris Rauf, Khushdil Shah, Naseem Shah, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir