Pakistan’s white-ball vice-captain Salman Agha has finally revealed the status of Saim Ayub’s injury during the Test series against South Africa. Salman feels Ayub will recover before the Champions Trophy as he will be an important part of the team’s plans.
Salman Agha also talked about the batting position in the team. Usually, he bats in the middle and lower order in various formats but can bat anywhere in the team.
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Salman Agha breaks silence on Saim Ayub’s injury
During the press conference, Salman Agha was asked about the injury status of opener Saim Ayub. Salman is hopeful that Ayyub will recover before the Champions Trophy, keeping in mind the medical reports.
“Saim Ayub will recover before the Champions Trophy given his initial medical reports. We all should pray for his speedy recovery as we know his importance to the Pakistan team. We hope he will join us for the Champions Trophy.” Salman said.
Salman Agha:
“Given Saim Ayub’s initial medical reports, he will recover before the Champions Trophy.” pic.twitter.com/pHaf9FKjjr— Hassan Abbasian (@HassanAbbasian) January 10, 2025
How was Saim Ayub injured?
Saim Ayub was injured midway through the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Cape Town. In the seventh over of the match, South African Ryan Rickelton had to be carried off the pitch when the ball edged past the slip cordon.
Ayub went to chase the ball at deep third off fast bowler Aamer Jamal. Jamal pulled the ball back and saved the boundary while Ayyub stood there like a relay player. But he lost his balance and twisted his ankle badly.
He quickly went down and felt severe pain while holding the lower part of his leg. A physio rushed to check on him and after a long treatment beyond the limit, he lay down. He was seen in tears as he left the pitch and was later seen on crutches.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) immediately sent him along with assistant coach Azhar Mahmood to London for treatment. However, reports revealed that Saim Ayub will take more time to recover and may miss the Champions Trophy.
Salman Agha reveals his favorite batting stance
Salman Agha was also asked about his favorite batting position in the team. The off-spinning all-rounder claimed he has no problem batting at any position in the lineup and is ready to bat wherever the team wants him.
“I have no problem fighting in any position,” said Salman Ali Agha.
“I have no problem playing in any position.” – Salman Ali Agha. #CT25
— Arfa Feroz Zake (@ArfaSays_) January 10, 2025
Salman Agha has been one of the best players for Pakistan across formats in the last few months. He mostly batted in the lower order but still managed to make impressive performances.
There have been talks of him defying the order and it remains to be seen if he will step up to the post. He recently scored 163 runs in three ODIs against South Africa at an average of 81.50 and a strike rate of 106.53 to help Pakistan clean up the hosts.
