Pakistan’s left-handed opening batter, Saim Ayub, has been ruled out of the second Test against South Africa due to an injury sustained while fielding at Newlands, Cape Town. Ayub twisted his right ankle during the opening session of Day 1 on Friday, forcing him to limp off the field. He was promptly taken to a nearby hospital for further evaluation.
Following X-rays and MRI scans, the results were sent to specialists in London for additional analysis. The severity of Ayub’s injury is still unclear, but it represents a significant concern for Pakistan, who face a packed international schedule. The team is preparing for a two-match Test series against West Indies, followed by a tri-nation ODI series featuring South Africa and New Zealand, and the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
The injury occurred after Ryan Rickelton guided a delivery from Mohammad Abbas through the slip cordon. As Ayub sprinted to relay the ball from deep third-man territory, he lost his footing, stumbling backwards and visibly struggling with pain. Medical staff attended to him on the field before he was taken off for further treatment.
Saim Ayub, 22, has been in outstanding form across formats, having scored three centuries and a fifty in ODIs since the white-ball tour of Australia. His performances also include a match-winning knock of 98* in T20Is. His contributions earned him the Player of the Series award in the South Africa ODI series, and he is shortlisted for the ICC Emerging Cricketer of the Year award.
The extent of Ayub’s injury remains uncertain, but his absence could impact Pakistan’s lineup during crucial upcoming fixtures. Fans and analysts alike are hoping for a swift recovery for one of the team’s brightest young talents.
