Saim Ayub’s Ankle Injury: Updates on London Trip, PCB’s Response, and Presidential Support
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- January 6, 2025
- 11:36 am
- 34
- Sports
Saim Ayub’s ankle injury has become a major concern for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The talented opener fractured his ankle during the Test match against South Africa at Newlands. The 22-year-old batter twisted his right ankle while fielding in the seventh over of the game. As a result, he has been ruled out of competitive cricket for six weeks. This has left his participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy uncertain.
What Happened During the Match?
Ayub’s ankle injury occurred during a routine fielding moment when he chased a ball toward deep third man alongside teammate Aamer Jamal. Just as he prepared to relay the ball, Ayub lost his balance and collapsed in visible pain. The team physio treated him on the sidelines, but he couldn’t stand or walk afterward. Medical staff later placed him in a stretcher, and an MRI confirmed he had fractured his ankle. Ayub was seen later using crutches and wearing a medical boot.
PCB’s Response to Ayub’s Ankle Injury
In a swift and proactive move, the PCB arranged for Ayub to travel to London for specialist care.
Saim Ayub will be checked up by the sports ortho specialist doctors in England as an immediate appointment has been made by the PCB. All resources will be used for his treatment.
Assistant coach Azhar Mahood, who is currently with the team in Cape Town, will accompany Ayub to ensure a smooth treatment process. This quick response reflects a significant improvement in the PCB’s approach to managing player injuries. In the past, delays, such as in the case of Shaheen Afridi in 2022, drew criticism from fans and experts alike.
A Major Setback for Pakistan Cricket
The timing of Ayub’s ankle injury is a major setback for Pakistan, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy just weeks away. Known for his remarkable performances, Ayub has been in stellar form. He scored three centuries and a fifty during Pakistan’s recent white-ball tour of Australia. His contributions were instrumental in Pakistan’s historic 3-0 ODI series win in South Africa, which made him a key figure in the team’s lineup.
Furthermore, losing a player of his caliber so close to the tournament adds pressure on the team’s preparations. Fans and teammates alike hope for his speedy recovery to strengthen Pakistan’s chances on home soil.
President Zardari’s Support for Ayub
Meanwhile, President Asif Ali Zardari extended his support to Ayub with a personal phone call to check on his condition and wish him well. During the call, Zardari praised Ayub’s exceptional performances, including his Player of the Series award during Pakistan’s recent success in South Africa. Ayub thanked the President for his kind words and reassured him of his commitment to recovering quickly. Zardari also extended his best wishes to the entire Pakistan team, acknowledging their hard work and recent victories.
What’s Next for Ayub and Pakistan?
The PCB confirmed that Ayub will need six weeks to recover. This puts him in a race against time to regain fitness before the ICC Champions Trophy begins on February 19. With only a month and a half left, his absence has created challenges for the team. However, Ayub’s determined mindset and the PCB’s commitment to his treatment offer hope that he will return stronger and ready to shine.
As the cricketing world watches closely, Pakistan fans remain optimistic that Ayub’s recovery will align with the nation’s aspirations for success in the Champions Trophy. For now, all eyes are on his treatment journey in London.
