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Pakistan’s opening batter, Saim Ayub, who represents Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, spoke about his recent return from injury and his bond with ace batter Babar Azam.
In early January, Saim suffered a right ankle fracture while fielding during the first day of the second Test between Pakistan and South Africa. The injury ruled him out for 10 weeks, preventing him from featuring in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The incident occurred in the seventh over of South Africa’s first innings when Ryan Rickelton played a fuller-length delivery from Mohammad Abbas past the slip cordon into the deep third-wicket region.
In an exclusive interview with the franchise, Saim described the rehabilitation process as challenging and enjoyable and expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its support during his injury.
“The PCB helped me tremendously during this tough phase. Now that I’m back on the field, I’m enjoying cricket even more – I missed everything about it: the ground atmosphere, batting, bowling, and fielding,” he added.
Saim Ayub also shared his bond with his franchise opening partner, Babar Azam, lauding the invaluable support from Pakistan’s ace batter.
“I’ve talked a lot about Babar bhai over the past two years. He treats everyone equally and makes batting partnerships enjoyable. I always plan my approach according to who I’m batting with,” the Karachi-born batter stated.
The left-handed batter expressed his excitement about playing the game again and the much-awaited PSL.
“I wait whole year for the PSL, and when you have to play for a franchise like Peshawar Zalmi, it adds to your level of excitement,” he revealed.
“Playing alongside local and international stars and gelling with the team – it’s been an incredible learning experience. The team culture of Zalmi is fantastic; we, as a team, enjoy every moment together, ” said Saim of the team’s culture.
READ: PSL 10: Islamabad United win toss against Peshawar Zalmi