Young Opener Nears Return After Ankle Injury Recovery
Pakistan’s promising opener, Saim Ayub, has successfully completed his rehabilitation for an ankle injury and is set to undergo a fitness test before being cleared to participate in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL), commencing on April 11.
Ayub Completes Rehab in London, Returns to Lahore for Final Assessment
According to a Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) source, Saim has returned to Lahore after undergoing specialized rehabilitation in London under the supervision of UK-based sports injury specialists. The left-handed batter must now pass a series of fitness evaluations in Lahore before receiving clearance to take part in the PSL.
“If the PCB medical panel deems it necessary for Saim to rest further before resuming competitive cricket, they will prioritize his long-term fitness over PSL participation,” the source stated.
Setback and Road to Recovery
Saim suffered the ankle injury while fielding on the boundary during the second Test in January. The PCB subsequently sent him to London for consultations, where experts advised an extensive rehabilitation program to ensure a complete recovery. The young cricketer had made a significant impact on Pakistan’s recent tours of Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, where he notched up two centuries in the ODI series against South Africa.
Fakhar Zaman Also Making Progress
In related news, seasoned opener Fakhar Zaman is reportedly recovering well from an injury sustained at the start of the Champions Trophy. He is on track to feature in the PSL, which will bolster his chances of reclaiming a spot in Pakistan’s top order.
Haris Rauf Rejoins Pakistan’s ODI Squad for New Zealand Series
Meanwhile, Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has rejoined the ODI squad in New Zealand after initially being excluded from the three-match series against the Black Caps. Haris and fellow pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi were omitted from the ODI squad due to subpar performances in the Champions Trophy, where Pakistan endured a winless campaign.
However, Haris’ standout performance in the recently concluded T20I series against New Zealand—where he emerged as Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker with seven scalps—prompted team management to reconsider their decision.
Squad Adjustments Underway
As Pakistan’s ODI squad prepares for the series opener in Napier on Saturday, PCB selectors, led by Aaqib Javed, are also considering the inclusion of a backup wicketkeeper-batter. Either Mohammad Haris or Usman Khan is expected to be retained in the squad to provide additional depth.
With Saim Ayub’s potential return, Fakhar Zaman’s recovery, and Haris Rauf’s reinstatement, Pakistan’s squad adjustments highlight the team’s efforts to refine their combination ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.