ICC Champions Trophy: Pakistan Hit By Major Injury Setback

Saim Ayub is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks after suffering a fracture to his right ankle while fielding in the second Test against South Africa.

Pakistan is currently touring South Africa for a two-match Test series.

Source : @HarryEverett_14 / X

ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to take place in Pakistan, with the tournament's schedule already announced. Before that, Pakistan is currently touring South Africa for a two-match Test series, with South Africa leading 1-0 after winning the first match. The second Test is ongoing, but during this match, Pakistan opener Saim Ayub has been ruled out due to an ankle injury.

Saim Ayub to Miss Six Weeks

Saim Ayub is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks after suffering a fracture to his right ankle while fielding in the second Test against South Africa. This injury is a major setback for Pakistan, but it could provide an unexpected opportunity for veteran Fakhar Zaman.

Pakistani Ulta Pro Max star Saim Ayub twisted his ankle while fielding.#PAKvsSA pic.twitter.com/wUOMo5FWCW

— 𝙕𝙄𝙈𝘽𝙐 😎 (@Zimbu12_) January 3, 2025

With ICC Champions Trophy 2025 looming, Fakhar may now have a chance to make his way into the squad. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed in a press release that an MRI had revealed the fracture, and Saim will soon return to Pakistan for treatment and recovery.

SA vs PAK 2nd Test: South Africa in complete control

On Day 1, South Africa's batting was led by captain Temba Bavuma, who scored a solid 106 off 179 balls. He was well supported by opener Ryan Rickelton, who remained unbeaten on 213*, as the pair put together a mammoth 235-run partnership.

The Pakistan bowlers were left chasing shadows, unable to make any breakthroughs. As Day 2 unfolds, South Africa has piled up 429/5, continuing to dominate the Pakistan side.

Earlier, South Africa defeated Pakistan by two wickets in the first Test of two-match Test series to take 1-0 lead and become the first team in current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle to qualify for June's WTC Final. 

Kwena Maphaka made history by becoming the youngest South African to debut in a Test match as the Proteas won the toss and chose to bat first in the second and final Test against Pakistan on Friday.