Saim Ayub heads to London for treatment after ankle injury

The left-handed batter sustained a right ankle fracture while fielding during SA Test.

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Pakistan's opening batter Saim Ayub flew to London on Tuesday for immediate medical treatment after suffering an ankle injury during the second Test against South Africa.

The left-handed batter sustained a right ankle fracture while fielding on Friday, the opening day of the match, which Pakistan ultimately lost by ten wickets.

Assistant Coach Azhar Mahmood accompanied Ayub on his journey to London for the treatment. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has personally overseen Ayub’s well-being, ensuring he receives top-tier medical care.

As per Naqvi’s instructions, the young batter is set to undergo a thorough examination by renowned sports orthopaedic specialists in England on Wednesday, where they will assess the severity of his injury and plan his rehabilitation.

Mohsin Naqvi expressed his full support for Ayub, calling him a “valuable asset” to Pakistan cricket and assuring that all necessary resources will be provided for his recovery. He also wished Ayub a swift recovery, stating he would remain in constant communication with the doctors overseeing his treatment.

 

 

 

 

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Ayub’s injury occurred in the seventh over of South Africa’s first innings, when Ryan Rickelton, who later scored a marathon 259 runs, played a fuller-length delivery from Mohammad Abbas into the deep third-man region. Saim sprinted in as the relay fielder while Aamir Jamal attempted to pull the ball back from the boundary.

However, Saim lost his balance and stumbled backwards, unable to regain his footing. Medical staff attended to him on the field, but the pain was evident as he struggled to stand and was ultimately carried off.

With a six-week recovery period ahead, Ayub is set to miss crucial matches, including the two-match Test series against the West Indies and the tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand.