Pakistan batter Saim Ayub’s availability for the Champions Trophy 2025 is yet to be revealed as he continues to recover from an ankle injury he suffered during the South Africa test series.
His availability will be known in a week and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is hoping to have Ayub Available for the Indian clash on February 23.
Saim Ayub has completed his assessments with orthopaedic surgeons in London for his ankle injury, but it will take one week time to know if he will be available for next month’s Champions Trophy.
Ayub was examined by two noted orthopedic surgeons in London, Dr David Redfern and Dr Lucky Jeyaseelan. A source close to Saim said the Pakistan Cricket Board is very keen on having the batter fit for Champions Trophy game against India on February 23.
“Even if the doctors say he will not have recovered from his injury in time for Pakistan’s opening CT game against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi but he could be fit for the India game, the selectors and PCB are willing to take the risk,” the source said.
Saim had been sent to Londonfor consultations with specialists even after he was initially advised a six-week rest for his ankle injury because the PCB is very keen to seen him fit for the marquee event and particularly the India match.
The PCB will get final reports and advice from the specialist by next week on Saim’s recovery process and time, but after initial examination they have ruled out any surgery to set the ankle to its position.
“Their findings are that Saim can recover from his injury through physiotherapy, medication and rest but how long a rehab period they suggest will be known next week,” he said.
Pakistan will be include Saim Ayub in the preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy as the selectors have tim until February 12 to make changes in it and finalise their 15-member squad.
Pakistan will begin the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand on February 19 at National Stadium Karachi.
