Saim Ayub ruled out of competitive cricket for up to six weeks

LAHORE: Pakistan opener Saim Ayub has been ruled out of competitive cricket for up to six weeks due to a right ankle fracture, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Saim sustained injuries while fielding on the opening day of the second men’s cricket Test against South Africa at Newlands on Friday.

Saim Ayub had to be stretchered off during the seventh over of Pakistan’s match against South Africa. The incident occurred when Ryan Rickelton edged a delivery through the slips, prompting Ayub and Aamer Jamal to chase the ball towards deep third.

As Jamal pulled the ball back, Ayub positioned himself as the relay fielder but lost his balance and twisted his ankle. He immediately fell to the ground, clutching his lower leg in pain, as the physio rushed to assist him.

Despite receiving extended treatment near the boundary, Ayub was unable to bear any weight on his right ankle. He appeared visibly distressed, even in tears, as he was carried off on a stretcher. The injury cast a shadow over Pakistan’s performance in the game.

According to PCB spokesperson, an MRI conducted Friday afternoon confirmed the fracture, which has been immobilised in an Ankle Medical Moon Boot.

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Although Saim will not participate further in the Test, he will remain with the team and travel back to Pakistan with the squad after the match concludes, the spokesperson said.

Saim Ayub has emerged as a breakout star in recent months, excelling across formats. He was named Player of the Series in Pakistan’s 3-0 ODI victory against South Africa last month, scoring two centuries in three matches.

As one of Pakistan’s few all-format regulars, Ayub was set to play a pivotal role in the upcoming Champions Trophy, which Pakistan will host starting in February. However, his participation is now in serious doubt due to the injury.