Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali opened up about Sym Ayub’s injury ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Basit Ali said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) should consider adding Test skipper Shan Masood to the Champions Trophy squad as opener Syam Ayub is unavailable if he is injured.

Saim Ayub suffered an ankle injury in the second Test match against South Africa. The 22-year-old opener was forced to leave the field and he was unable to bat in the match. He is currently receiving treatment in London. Pakistan is yet to announce its squad for the championship trophy.

Shan Masood should open up the batting position if Syed Ayoub cannot bat – Basit Ali

Basit Ali said Shan Masood should start batting alongside Fakhar Zaman if Syed Ayoub fails to recover in time. Buster emphasized that Ayoub and Fakhar are the best starting combination. He also added that the team’s success will depend heavily on Ayub (if fit), Fakhar, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

“If Saim comes back, then he and Fakhar are the best starting combination. If Saim cannot play, then Shan Masood can start. After the starting combination, Babar and Rizwan will come. Pakistan The team is going to rely on those four guys,” Buster said. His YouTube channel.

Masood last played an ODI in May 2023 against New Zealand in Karachi. He played 9 ODIs and scored 163 runs at an average of 18.11. Masood captains Pakistan in the two-Test series against the West Indies at home, with the hosts winning the first match.

Shadab Khan is needed at this time – Basit Ali

The 54-year-old emphasized the importance of having a spin bowling all-rounder in the Pakistan team when they compete in major tournaments. He said Shadab Khan can fulfill this responsibility and said Pakistan needs him at this time.

“Shadab Khan is needed at this time. Pakistan needs a spin all-rounder,” Basit said.

Shadab Khan last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup against England. During his career, Shadab played 70 ODI matches and scored 855 runs at an average of 25.90. As a bowler, he took 85 wickets with an average of 34.82 and an economy rate of 5.24.

I believe Saud Shakir should be included – Bast Ali

The cricketer-turned-expert expressed concern over the lack of depth in Pakistan’s batting order. Basit pointed out that the middle order seemed fragile, especially against the fast bowlers. He added that the only game in which Pakistan is likely to face spin bowlers will be against India.

“Pakistan’s middle order is a problem as they will have to face bowlers with a speed of over 140 kmph. Only against India, it will be a spin attack, rest and I don’t think spinners have any role. Pakistan’s No. 5 , 6 and 7 look dangerous to me at the moment, which is why I think Saud Shakeel should be included.”

Also read: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: PCB provides CT with major update on stadium upgrades and renovations