Pakistan’s left-handed opener Saim Ayub has been ruled out of the second Test match against South Africa after twisting his right ankle while fielding at Newlands, Cape Town.
Ayub underwent X-rays and MRI tests this afternoon, and the reports have been sent to specialists in London for further advice on treatment and time away from competitive cricket.
The incident occurred during the opening session of Day 1, when South Africa recovered with the help of centuries from Ryan Rickelton and captain Temba Bavuma, scoring 316/4 by the end of the day.
Ayub limped off the field after the injury and was taken to a nearby hospital for further testing.
Saim Ayub had been fielding when a fuller-length delivery from Mohammad Abbas was guided by Rickelton through the slip cordon, and Ayub ran to be the relay fielder but lost his balance and stumbled backwards.
The 22-year-old appeared uncomfortable as he was helped off the field after receiving medical care.
While the extent of Ayub’s injury is still unknown, it poses a significant concern for Pakistan, especially with a packed schedule ahead. They are set to host the West Indies for a two-match Test series, followed by a tri-nation ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand, and the highly anticipated ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
Ayub is an integral part of Pakistan’s side across formats and has been in exceptional form since the white-ball tour of Australia. He has scored three centuries and one fifty in ODIs, as well as an unbeaten 98-run knock in T20Is.
For his sensational performance, Ayub also bagged the Player of the Series award in the South Africa ODIs. Additionally, the ICC has shortlisted him for the Emerging Cricketer of the Year award.
