By Zainab Shafiq 
Pakistan’s promising opener, Saim Ayub, has uncertainty surrounding his participation in the Champions Trophy 2025 as a right ankle fracture he suffered in the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town rules him out of competitive cricket for at least six weeks, casting a question mark over whether he will be ready for the big tournament.
The 22-year-old suffered the injury on the opening day of the Test at Newlands while fielding. Ayub lost his balance while retrieving the ball, stumbling backward and injuring his ankle. An MRI confirmed the fracture, and his foot has been immobilized with a medical moon boot.
Though badly injured, Ayub will travel back home only at the end of the Test series but has doubtful recovery prospects against two-match Test home series scheduled for West Indies and tri-series in which both South Africa and New Zealand feature, and those series were meant as build-up into Champions Trophy.
Criticism on peak – Saim Ayub was the only in-form ODI player ahead of Champions Trophy 2025
Criticism has emerged over how Ayub’s injury could affect Pakistan’s plans. Former opener Ahmed Shehzad vented his frustration over the team management by saying that they should have kept Ayub back for the marquee tournament. “Saim was the only player who came up in top form, and now he is injured. If this turns into a long-term setback, then who will be held accountable?” Shehzad asked.
Ayub is a significant absentee for Pakistan in their batting lineup. The young left-hander has come out with flying colors in the recently concluded ODI series against South Africa. He was awarded Player of the Series after he scored two centuries in three matches, which saw Pakistan achieve a record 3-0 whitewash in South Africa.
While Ayub’s injury casts doubt over his participation in the Champions Trophy, fans and cricket experts alike are hopeful for his swift recovery. His return will be crucial as Pakistan eyes the prestigious tournament next year.
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