Saim Ayub Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Due to Ankle Injury

Saim Ayub has been officially ruled out of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 due to a right ankle fracture he sustained during a Test match against South Africa. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that his recovery will take at least 10 weeks, preventing him from participating in the tournament set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE. Despite this setback, there is a possibility for Ayub to join Pakistan's white-ball tour of New Zealand in March, contingent on passing fitness tests. PCB member Asad Shafiq expressed disappointment over Ayub's exclusion, noting his impressive performance prior to the injury, including being named in the ICC ODI team of the year. Pakistan's squad for the Champions Trophy will be led by Mohammad Rizwan, following Babar Azam's resignation as captain. The team is set to begin their campaign against New Zealand on February 19.