Saim Ayub to undergo treatment in London to prepare for Champions Trophy

Ayub suffered a fracture in his right ankle on the opening day of the second test against South Africa in Cape Town on Friday. As a result, he will be sidelined from competitive cricket for a minimum of six weeks.

The PCB said in a statement on Sunday that after consulting with doctors, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi decided to send Ayub to London for an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon.

“He’s (Ayub) a very good stylish batter and is an asset of Pakistan,” Naqvi said. “We are worried about his injury and he will get the best treatment.”

Saim Ayub to fly out of Cape Town

Assistant coach Azhar Mahmood will accompany Ayub, and both will fly out on the first available flight from Cape Town.

Defending champion and host Pakistan will take on New Zealand in its first group A game of the Champions Trophy at Karachi on Feb. 19.

The ICC has organized the event to be played in multiple countries after India refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns.

India will play all its games in Dubai, including the semifinals and final, if it qualifies for the playoffs. India is also in group A which also features Bangladesh.

Group B comprises England, Australia, South Africa and Afghanistan. Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi will host the games in Pakistan.

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