PCB Provides Update On Saim Ayub's Injury; Will The Star Batter Make Last Minute Comeback?

Saim Ayub injury update [Source: @caught1bowled/X.com]

Pakistan's Champions Trophy Squad was announced a few days ago, but the selection received widespread criticism as there were a number of loopholes which weren't answered and one of them was the replacement for injured opener, Saim Ayub. There was no replacement announced for the injured player and instead, PCB selectors picked up Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah as the two openers.

Saim suffered from an ankle injury during the South Africa Tests and was initially ruled out for 5 weeks. However, he was eventually ruled out of the Champions Trophy, and now a couple of days before the deadline day to finalise the squad, PCB has provided a massive update on his injury.

PCB update on Saim Ayub's injury

As per the media release, Saim Ayub is doing well in his recovery from a right ankle fracture and is currently rehabilitating in England. Moreover, there is no chance for a comeback in the Champions Trophy, but the youngster is eyeing the New Zealand tour, with the subject to clear all his medical tests.

The Pakistan tour of New Zealand will commence after the Champions Trophy (March 16 to April 5), and PCB are hoping that the opener recovers in time for the away tour.

Just one opener in Pakistan CT squad, no Saim Ayub replacement

While Fakhar Zaman is set to open the innings for Pakistan in Champions Trophy, no proper Saim Ayub replacement has been announced.

Interestingly, the PCB selectors picked plethora of all-rounders, instead of an opening batter. They also urged Babar Azam to open the innings alongside Fakhar, a decision which Babar accepted a few days ago.

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