Pakistan suffered a serious setback within the second Check towards South Africa as their in-form opener Saim Ayub was stretchered off the sector with a proper ankle damage. The 21-year-old, who has been in chic contact throughout codecs, will play no additional half within the match, along with his availability for the upcoming Champions Trophy now in severe doubt.
The Incident: A Chasing Mishap
The damage occurred early on Day 1 at Newlands when Ryan Rickelton edged a ball by way of the slips. Ayub, sprinting towards deep third to help Aamer Jamal in a relay fielding effort, misplaced his stability and twisted his ankle.
The younger batter instantly went down clutching his leg, visibly distressed. The staff physio rushed to his assist, however Ayub couldn’t stand, not to mention stroll. With tears in his eyes, he was carried off the sector on a stretcher as Pakistan’s hopes took successful.
X-Rays and MRI Scans Verify the Worst
Regardless of receiving extended therapy exterior the boundary, Ayub’s situation didn’t enhance. Shortly after the day’s play, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) launched an announcement confirming his unavailability for the rest of the Check.
“Saim underwent X-rays and MRI checks this afternoon,” the assertion learn. “The reviews have been despatched to specialists in London for additional recommendation on the therapy and time away from aggressive cricket.”
The damage, which appeared severe at first look, could maintain him out of motion longer than initially anticipated.
A Blow to Pakistan’s Plans
Ayub’s absence is a big loss for Pakistan. The left-hander has been a breakout star, impressing with constant performances in all codecs. He was named Participant of the Sequence within the not too long ago concluded ODI sequence towards South Africa, the place he scored two a whole lot in three video games.
His all-format versatility made him an important a part of Pakistan’s plans for the upcoming Champions Trophy, which the nation is ready to host in February. Now, his participation hangs by a thread.
“It’s a giant blow, the sort of type he’s in,” team-mate Salman Ali Agha mentioned on the shut of play. “He would have been an amazing asset on this wicket. I want him effectively and hopefully, he’ll be higher quickly.”
On-Area Affect
Pakistan’s troubles didn’t finish with Ayub’s damage. His alternative, Abdullah Shafique, had a shaky begin within the subject. He dropped a simple catch from Aiden Markram at cowl, although the error didn’t show too expensive, as Markram fell to Khurram Shahzad two overs later.
Pakistan’s bowlers managed to drag issues again, however Ayub’s damage clearly rattled the guests.
Ayub’s absence raises issues about his restoration timeline. With the Champions Trophy simply over a month away, Pakistan’s administration might be anxiously awaiting updates from the medical staff.
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