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In a recent podcast with Sawera Pasha on the Samma TV YouTube channel, forms Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi provided valuable insights into the state of Pakistan cricket. Afridi shared an update on the explosive opener Saim Ayubrecovery and emphasized the importance of patience, player wellness and bench strength for 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.
“Patiently, I spoke to Saim last night. I called to inquire about his health and well-being. I was informed that it may take at least three weeks for the re-application process to begin, after which the process will begin of rehabilitation”. Afridi explained.
Afridi stressed the importance of Ayub taking enough time to fully recover, warning that he would not return to the field early. Acknowledging Ayub’s recent form, Afridi admitted the team would miss his contributions, but reiterated that prioritizing health over the immediate demands of cricket is essential for long-term success.
“Son, you are still young and have a lot of cricket ahead of you. Get fully recovered first, and then all cricket will still be there for you. You are such a brilliant player that no one can take your place. So, give yourself enough time,” advised the 47-year-old.
🚨 SHAHID AFRIDI CONFIRMS THAT SAIM AYUB WILL MISS THE CHAMPIONS TROPHY
Afridi told Samaa News “I spoke to Saim Ayub last night, he told me he needs 3 weeks and then his rehabilitation will start. Pakistan will feel Saim’s absence in CT 25 because we don’t have the backups ready ” 🇵🇰💔💔 pic.twitter.com/aA5Orb8JCm
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) January 16, 2025
READ also: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four Champions Trophy 2025 semi-finalists
The importance of bench strength in cricket
The conversation turned to a critical discussion of the strength of Pakistan’s bank. Sawera highlighted the team’s struggles due to injuries to key players like Shaheen Afridi (2022) i Naseem Shah (2023) before major tournaments. Afridi agreed and pointed out that the main cause was lack of preparation for such scenarios.
“The reason was that your bank was not ready. Why didn’t you prepare someone as Shaheen’s support? Why not for Babar?” stated the former captain.
He emphasized the need to prepare backups of 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 ensure continuity:
“It doesn’t happen in other teams. Players may not be available, but there is always someone ready to take their place and perform just as well. You need to create these players,” Afridi concluded.
Pakistan await squad announcement as Champions Trophy 2025 approaches
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025to be held in Pakistan, is generating great excitement as it marks the return of an important ICC event to the country. With Pakistan as the defending champions, the stakes are higher than ever. However, the team’s preparations have hit a small snag with the squad announcement being delayed.
Among the key updates expected is the fitness status of Ayub, who suffered a knee injury during the second Test of south africa. Ayub’s recent performances in white-ball cricket have been excellent, making him a pivotal part of Pakistan’s plans for the tournament.
His possible absence could disrupt Pakistan’s strategy, although the management remains hopeful of his recovery ahead of the competition. Pakistan’s memorable triumph in Champions Trophy 2017 final against India in England it is a moment of national pride. With the tournament returning to its home soil, the team has a chance to replicate its past successes on home soil.
