in a recent podcast with Savera Pasha On Samma TV’s YouTube channel, forms Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi He gave valuable information about the state of cricket in Pakistan. Afridi shared an update on the explosive switch Saim Ayubstressed the importance of patience, player welfare and bench strength for his recovery and long-term success.
Shahid Afridi’s top news on Saim Ayub’s availability
Afridi revealed that he personally contacted Ayub to inquire about his health and offer words of encouragement.
“I patiently spoke with Saim last night. I called to ask about his health. I was informed that it may take at least three weeks for the re-application process to begin, after which the rehabilitation process will begin.” Afridi explained.
Afridi stressed the importance of giving Ayub enough time to fully recover and cautioned against rushing into the field prematurely. Accepting Ayub’s recent form, Afridi admitted the team will miss his contributions, but reiterated the importance of prioritizing health over immediate cricketing demands for long-term success.
“Son, you are still young and have a lot of cricket ahead of you. Get fully healed first, then all the cricket will still be there for you. You are such a brilliant player that no one can take your place. So give yourself plenty of time.” A 47-year-old man consulted.
🚨 SHAHID AFRIDI CONFIRMES SAIM AYOUB WILL MISS CHAMPIONS TROPHY
Afridi told Samaa News “I spoke to Saim Ayub last night and he told me that he needs 3 weeks and after that his rehabilitation will start. Pakistan will feel Saim’s absence on CT 25 as our backups are not ready” 🇵🇰💔💔 pic.twitter.com/aA5Orb8JCm
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) January 16, 2025
Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts the four semi-finalists of the 2025 Champions Trophy
Importance of bench strength in cricket
The conversation turned to a critical discussion about the strength of Pakistan’s bench. It highlighted the team’s struggles due to injuries to key players like Sawera Shaheen Afridi (2022) and Nasim Shah (2023) before major tournaments. Afridi agreed, pointing out that the root cause is failure to prepare for such scenarios.
“It was because your bench wasn’t ready. Why didn’t you make one as a backup to the Falcon? Why not for Babar?’ said the former captain.
He stressed the need to prepare spare parts for key players to ensure that the team’s performance is not affected by injuries. Afridi compared Pakistan’s approach to other teams, highlighting how strong benches provide consistency:
“This does not happen in other teams. Players may be unavailable, but there’s always someone ready to fill in and perform the same way. It is necessary to create such players.” Afridi concluded.
As the 2025 Champions Trophy approaches, Pakistan await the squad announcement
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025Pakistan is generating considerable excitement as it marks the return of a major ICC event to the country. With Pakistan as the reigning champions, the stakes are higher than ever. However, the team’s preparations faced a minor setback with the delayed squad announcement.
Among the key updates expected is the fitness status of Ayub, who suffered a knee injury during the second Test. South Africa. Ayub’s recent performances in white-ball cricket have been excellent and have made him an important part of Pakistan’s tournament plans.
His potential absence could derail Pakistan’s strategy, although the management hopes he will recover before the competition. Pakistan’s memorable win in Champions Trophy 2017 final India in England it is a moment of national pride. With the tournament now back home, the team has an opportunity to repeat its past successes on home soil.
