Champions Trophy 2025: Saim Ayub out of Pakistan squad, need 6 months to recover from ankle injury - Report

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Pakistan's promising batter Saim Ayub has been officially ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to an ankle injury that requires six months of recovery.

According to a report by ARY News, Saim Ayub consulted renowned specialist Dr. Jeyaseelan in London, who confirmed the fracture in the batter's ankle and recommended an extended period of rest to ensure complete healing.

Ayub sustained the injury during Pakistan's Test series against South Africa while attempting to prevent a boundary. The incident left him in visible pain, and he was immediately taken off the field. Subsequent medical assessments led the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to send him to London for a detailed evaluation.

Assistant coach Azhar Mahmood accompanied Ayub on his trip, where Dr. Jeyaseelan conducted a thorough assessment of the injury. While the fracture has stabilized, the specialist cautioned against premature activity and stressed the need for careful weight-bearing and rest over the next six months.

The injury has dealt a significant blow to Pakistan's preparations for the Champions Trophy. Ayub's performances in the lead-up to the tournament had been stellar, including two centuries in the ODI series against South Africa. His absence creates a void in the top order, with the team now needing to reconfigure their strategy to cope without one of their in-form players.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has labeled Ayub a "valuable asset" and expressed the board's commitment to ensuring the young batter receives the best possible care. Naqvi has personally overseen Ayub's treatment process, emphasizing the importance of a full recovery. The PCB has not yet issued an official statement on Ayub's replacement for the Champions Trophy, though his unavailability significantly impacts their plans for the marquee event.

Ayub's injury underscores the physical demands and risks inherent in competitive cricket. While the news is a setback for both the player and the team, there is optimism that Ayub will return stronger after completing his recovery. His development as a player and his contributions to Pakistan cricket have already made him a vital part of the team's future.