Pakistan's young batting sensation Saim Ayub is out of action after sustaining an injury, which kept him out of the Champions Trophy 2025.
Now, as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 approaches, the big question remains, will Saim Ayub be fit in time to play for Peshawar Zalmi?

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently shared a video of Ayub undergoing rigorous fitness drills as part of his rehabilitation. While initial expectations were that he would regain fitness before the PSL, a recent report from sports journalist Qadir Khawaja suggests that Ayub has completed his rehabilitation in the UK and has returned to Lahore. His next hurdle will be a fitness assessment at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), which will ultimately determine his participation in the tournament.
Peshawar Zalmi, captained by Babar Azam, will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of Ayub's fitness test. With PSL 2025 set to begin on April 11, the franchise will need clarity on whether their explosive opener can take the field.
Ayub was a crucial performer for Zalmi last season, amassing 345 runs at an impressive strike rate of over 157. His presence at the top of the order adds firepower to the team, making his fitness a matter of significant interest.
In case Ayub is unable to make a full recovery in time, Zalmi has signed English cricketer Mitchell Owen as a potential backup option for the opening slot. However, the team would undoubtedly prefer to have Ayub, given his recent form and aggressive batting style.
The good news for Pakistan cricket fans is that Ayub is on track to regain fitness, and if he clears the NCA tests, he is expected not only to play in PSL 2025 but also to feature in all three formats for Pakistan in the near future.