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'Feels Bad...': Fakhar Zaman Turns Sympathic For Saim Ayub Amid Injury Woes

Muskaan Bhatt

Fakhar Zaman talked about Saim Ayub (Source: AP Photos,@ArslanJutt43/X.Com)Fakhar Zaman talked about Saim Ayub (Source: AP Photos,@ArslanJutt43/X.Com)

Pakistan recently announced their preliminary squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. While it has some notable inclusions like Fakhar Zaman, it also has a particularly important exclusion as Saim Ayub has not been included in the squad. 

Ayub, who was in his prime form and on a dream run, sustained an unfortunate ankle injury against South Africa. His injury has sidelined him for a period of six months. While talking about Saim Ayub and his injury, Pakistan's opening batter, Fakhar Zaman emphasized on how  setbacks like these are part of a player's journey. 

"It feels bad when a player on whom Pakistan has invested so much gets injured just as he starts performing at his peak. I believe these challenges are part of life, and to become a great player, you have to face them," he added. 

Fakhar Zaman On Ayub's Return

He also wished for his recovery, hoping for his return soon and said that:

“I hope Saim recovers soon. For batsmen, regaining fitness takes time, but it is generally quicker than fast bowlers. So, I believe Saim will return very soon," he concluded.

When Will Saim Ayub Return? 

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is awaiting medical clearance for Saim Ayub, with his recovery still uncertain. The young left-handed opener, who injured himself in South Africa, is undergoing treatment in the UK and has recently had his first evaluation. 

It remains to be seen if Ayub will regain full fitness in time for Pakistan's Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in February. His status is crucial, as the PCB hopes to have him available for the tournament, though his road to recovery is still a work in progress.