ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced plans to send injured opening batsman Saim Ayub to London, as they aim to facilitate his recovery ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy next month.

Ayub suffered a fractured right ankle during the first day of the second test match against South Africa in Cape Town on Friday, rendering him unavailable for competitive play for a minimum of six weeks.

On Sunday, PCB released a statement confirming that following discussions with medical professionals, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi opted to arrange for Ayub to see an orthopedic specialist in London.

“His talent and style as a batsman make him invaluable to our team,” Naqvi remarked. “We are deeply concerned about his condition, and we want to ensure he receives the highest quality of care.”

Ayub will be accompanied on his journey by assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, and both are set to depart on the next available flight from Cape Town.

As the defending champions and hosts, Pakistan is scheduled to face New Zealand in their initial Group A match of the Champions Trophy, taking place in Karachi on February 19.

The ICC has organized this tournament across several countries, following India’s decision to avoid traveling to Pakistan due to safety concerns.

India has arranged to play all its matches in Dubai, including the semifinals and finals, should they advance to the knockout stage. They are also part of Group A, which includes Bangladesh.

Group B features teams from England, Australia, South Africa, and Afghanistan. Matches will be held in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi within Pakistan.