In a recent podcast with Sawera Pasha on YouTube channel Samma TV, ex Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi provided valuable insights into the state of Pakistan cricket. Afridi shared an update on the explosive opener Saim Ayubrecovery and stressed 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 approached Ayub to inquire about his health and offer words of encouragement.
“With patience, I spoke with Saima last night. I called him to ask about his health and well-being. I was informed that it could take at least three weeks for the re-application process to begin, after which the withdrawal process would begin,” Afridi explained.
Afridi stressed the importance of Ayub taking enough time to fully recover, warning against rushing back to the field too soon. Acknowledging Ayub’s recent form, Afridi acknowledged that the team will miss his contribution but reiterated that prioritizing health over the immediate demands of cricket is crucial for long-term success.
“Son, you are still young and have a lot of cricket ahead of you. First get fully recovered 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 plenty of 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 after that his rehabilitation will start. Pakistan will feel Saim’s absence in CT 25 as we don’t have backups ready” 🇵🇰💔💔 pic.twitter.com/aA5Orb8JCm
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) January 16, 2025
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The importance of bench strength in cricket
The conversation shifted to a critical discussion of Pakistan’s bench strength. Sawera highlighted the team’s struggles due to injuries to key players such as Shaheen Afridi (2022) and Naseem Shah (2023) before major tournaments. Afridi agreed, pointing out that the root cause is a lack of preparation for such scenarios.
“The reason was that your bench was not prepared. Why didn’t you prepare someone as Shaheen’s backup? Why not for Babar?” the former captain stated.
He emphasized the need to prepare backups for key players to ensure that the team’s performance is not affected by injuries. Afridi compared Pakistan’s approach to other teams, noting how strong benches ensure continuity:
“That doesn’t happen in other teams. Players may be unavailable, but there is always someone ready to fill their place and play just as well. You need to create players like that,” Afridi concluded.
Pakistan await squad announcement as Champions Trophy 2025 approaches
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025to be held in Pakistan, is generating considerable excitement as it marks the return of a major ICC event to the country. With Pakistan being the defending champions, the stakes are higher than ever. However, the team’s preparations encountered a minor obstacle with the delayed announcement of the squad.
Among the key updates awaited is the fitness status of Ayub, who picked up a knee injury during the second Test in the South Africa. Ayub’s recent performances in white-ball cricket have been outstanding, making him a key part of Pakistan’s plans for the tournament.
His potential absence could disrupt Pakistan’s strategy, although management remains hopeful of his recovery ahead of the competition. Pakistan’s unforgettable triumph in Champions Trophy 2017 final vs India in England is a moment of national pride. With the tournament now returning to their home country, the team has a chance to repeat their past success on home soil.
READ ALSO: Kamran Akmal picks his Pakistan squad for Champions Trophy 2025; Saim Ayub finds a place
