Young Pakistan opener Saim Ayub has been ruled out for six weeks after injuring his ankle while fielding: Pakistan’s young opener Sam Ayub has been ruled out for up to six weeks after fracturing his right ankle on the first day of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands. The unfortunate injury has ruled Ayub out of the ongoing match, dealing a major blow to the Pakistan team.
The incident happened in the seventh over of the game on Friday. Ayub, fielding at deep third, was trying to catch South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton at slip. His teammate Aamir Jamal pulled the ball back, allowing Ayub to become the relay fielder. However, Ayub lost his balance and twisted his ankle, causing him to fall to the ground in pain. He was carried off the field on a stretcher and an MRI scan later confirmed the fracture.
Ayub’s broken ankle has been immobilised with a medical moon boot to aid recovery. Although unable to play further in the Test, the 21-year-old batsman will remain with the Pakistan team during the match. He is expected to return to Pakistan with the team once the Test is over.
The injury comes at a challenging time for Pakistan, as Ayub has been a promising presence at the top of the order. His absence could force the team management to make strategic adjustments for the remainder of the Test series and the upcoming matches.
Meanwhile, South Africa took advantage of the day’s play, with centuries from Ryan Rickelton and skipper Temba Bavuma helping the hosts post 316/4 at stumps. The Proteas are in a strong position, and Pakistan will need to regroup to move forward in the Test without Ayub.
Sam Ayub’s injury is a setback to his budding international career, but the young cricketer’s resilience and determination have instilled confidence in his ability to recover and return stronger. Fans and teammates will be eager to see him back on the field after rehabilitation.
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Source: ICC
