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In a recent podcast with Sawera Pasha on Samma TV’s YouTube channel, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi provided valuable insights into the state of Pakistan cricket. Afridi shared an update on explosive opener Saim Ayub’s recovery and emphasized the importance of patience, player well-being, and bench strength for long-term success.
Shahid Afridi’s major news on Saim Ayub’s availability
Afridi revealed that he personally reached out to Ayub to inquire about his health and offer words of encouragement.
“With patience, I spoke to Saim just last night. I called to ask about his health and well-being. I was informed that it might take at least three weeks for the re-application process to start, after which the rehab process will begin,” Afridi explained.
Afridi stressed the importance of Ayub taking sufficient time to recover fully, cautioning against rushing back to the field prematurely. Acknowledging Ayub’s recent form, Afridi admitted that the team would miss his contributions but reiterated that prioritizing health over immediate cricketing demands is essential for long-term success.
“Son, you’re still young, and there’s a lot of cricket ahead of you. Fully recover first, and 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 enough time,” the 47-year-old advised.
🚨 SHAHID AFRIDI CONFIRMS SAIM AYUB WILL MISS CHAMPIONS TROPHY
Afridi told Samaa News "I talked to Saim Ayub last night, he told me that he needs 3 weeks and after that his rehab will start. Pakistan will feel Saim's absence in CT 25 because we don't have backups ready" 🇵🇰💔💔 pic.twitter.com/aA5Orb8JCm
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) January 16, 2025
Also READ: Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman predicts his four semifinalists of Champions Trophy 2025
The importance of bench strength in cricket
The conversation shifted to a critical discussion about Pakistan’s bench strength. Sawera highlighted the team’s struggles due to injuries to key players like Shaheen Afridi (2022) and Naseem Shah (2023) before major tournaments. Afridi agreed, pointing out that the root cause was the lack of preparation for such scenarios.
“The reason was that your bench wasn’t prepared. Why didn’t you prepare someone as Shaheen’s backup? Why not for Babar?,” the former captain stated.
He emphasized the necessity of grooming backups for key players to ensure the team’s performance remains unaffected by injuries. Afridi compared Pakistan’s approach to other teams, highlighting how strong benches ensure continuity:
“It doesn’t happen in other teams. Players might be unavailable, but there’s always someone ready to fill their place and perform just as well. You need to create such players,” Afridi concluded.
Pakistan awaits squad announcement as Champions Trophy 2025 nears
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan, is generating significant excitement as it marks the return of a major ICC event to the country. With Pakistan being the defending champion, the stakes are higher than ever. However, the team’s preparation has hit a minor roadblock with the delayed squad announcement.
Among the key updates awaited is the fitness status of Ayub, who sustained a knee injury during the second Test in South Africa. Ayub’s recent performances in white-ball cricket have been outstanding, making him a critical part of Pakistan’s plans for the tournament.
His potential absence could disrupt Pakistan’s strategy, though the management remains hopeful for his recovery ahead of the competition. Pakistan’s memorable triumph in the Champions Trophy 2017 final against India in England is a moment of national pride. With the tournament now returning to their homeland, the team has an opportunity to replicate their past success on home soil.
