'Doubtful': PCB shares updates about injured Saim Ayub

Pakistan Cricker Board has said the participation of left-handed star batter Saim Ayub’s in cricket tournaments after the Champions Trophy remains doubtful.

“Pakistan opener Saim Ayub is progressing well in his recovery from a right ankle fracture and will continue his rehabilitation in England,” the PCB said in a statement.

Ayub is in London for his treatment after his right ankle twisted while fielding on the opening day of the second men’s cricket Test against South Africa at Newlands on January 3.

The next day, the board ruled out him from competitive cricket for up to six weeks.

But Friday’s statement said that the cricketer “has been ruled out for 10 weeks from the date of injury [3 January] following comprehensive MRI scans, X-rays, and medical assessments.”

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He was also dropped from the Champions Trophy squad. In the recent past, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said that the board would not jeopardise the cricketer’s future.

“His availability for the New Zealand tour will be subject to clearing all fitness tests and medical requirements,” it said.

Pakistan would tour New Zealand for five T20Is and three ODIs from March 16 to April 5 which would be followed by the Pakistan Super League which starts on April 8.