NEW DELHI: Young Pakistan opener Saim Ayub will remain in London this month for rehabilitation under the care of two renowned sports injury specialists as the country's cricket board (PCB) remains optimistic about his recovery from an ankle injury ahead of the Champions Trophy next month.
Ayub sustained an ankle fracture while fielding during the second Test against South Africa earlier this month.
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Following an initial recommendation of six weeks' rest, the PCB decided to send him directly to London from Cape Town for a second opinion on his recovery process.
"The PCB has decided that Saim will undergo his rehab process in London this month and will return to Pakistan once his ankle support brace is removed by the specialists and he is allowed to put weight on his feet," a PCB official said.
After the brace is removed, Ayub may return to Pakistan to complete the final phase of his rehabilitation, depending on the specialists' advice.
England's former Test captain, Nasser Hussain, recently named Ayub among his potential "fab four" players of the future. The list also included India's Yashasvi Jaiswal, England's Harry Brook, and Australia's Travis Head.
Ayub gained prominence during recent tours of Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, excelling in all formats.
He particularly impressed in the ODI series against South Africa, scoring two centuries before his injury.
The PCB has included Ayub in Pakistan's provisional squad for the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, expressing hope that he will recover in time for the prestigious tournament.
Also See: Champions Trophy Schedule
