Pakistan suffered a significant setback within the second Take a look at 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 critical doubt.
The Incident: A Chasing Mishap
The damage occurred early on Day 1 at Newlands when Ryan Rickelton edged a ball by means 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 help, 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 a success.
X-Rays and MRI Scans Verify the Worst
Regardless of receiving extended remedy 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 Take a look at.
“Saim underwent X-rays and MRI exams this afternoon,” the assertion learn. “The experiences have been despatched to specialists in London for additional recommendation on the remedy and time away from aggressive cricket.”
The damage, which appeared critical at first look, could hold 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 Collection within the just lately concluded ODI sequence towards South Africa, the place he scored two tons of 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 an enormous blow, the sort of type he’s in,” team-mate Salman Ali Agha stated on the shut of play. “He would have been an excellent asset on this wicket. I want him effectively and hopefully, he’ll be higher quickly.”
On-Discipline Affect
Pakistan’s troubles didn’t finish with Ayub’s damage. His alternative, Abdullah Shafique, had a shaky begin within the subject. He dropped an easy catch from Aiden Markram at cowl, although the error didn’t show too pricey, as Markram fell to Khurram Shahzad two overs later.
Pakistan’s bowlers managed to tug 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 shall be anxiously awaiting updates from the medical staff.
Keep up to date with all of the cricketing motion, comply with Cricadium on WhatsApp, Fb, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram