Pakistan’s opening batter Saim Ayub has been released from the national ODI squad for the remainder of the tri-nation series against England and Sri Lanka after requesting permission to return to domestic cricket and work on his batting form.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named Sahibzada Farhan as his replacement.
In an official announcement on October 26, the PCB said Ayub discussed his current form with head coach Mike Hesson before requesting a return to domestic cricket to rebuild his confidence.
The team management and national selection committee accepted the left-handed batter’s request, acknowledging his assessment of his recent performances.
Ayub Struggles With Bat in ODI Tri-Series
Ayub has struggled to make an impact in the ongoing Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka ODI tri-series, scoring just 21 runs in three matches.
The opener made seven runs against Sri Lanka in Pakistan’s opening match before managing eight and six runs in his next two appearances against England.
His departure from the squad provides an opportunity to work on his batting in domestic cricket as Pakistan prepares for the final of the tournament.
Sahibzada Farhan Joins Pakistan ODI Squad
Farhan has been brought into the squad for the remaining matches of the tri-series. He recently captained Pakistan in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka.
His inclusion gives Pakistan another opening-batting option as the team looks to maintain its winning momentum ahead of the final.
The PCB confirmed the change in its official announcement on Saim Ayub’s release from the ODI squad.
PCB Makes Further Changes to Squad
Ayub’s release follows another squad adjustment on Sunday, when the PCB released left-arm wrist-spinner Sufiyan Muqeem to play domestic cricket, taking the conditions at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium into consideration.
Young batter Maaz Sadaqat was subsequently added as cover for players with minor fitness concerns.
The changes come as Pakistan continues its preparations for the final stages of the seven-match ODI tri-series.
Pakistan Qualifies for Tri-Series Final
Pakistan has already secured a place in the final after winning its first three matches of the tournament.
The team’s latest victory came against England on October 25, when Shadab Khan scored an unbeaten 113 to guide Pakistan to a dramatic one-wicket win at Gaddafi Stadium. He also shared an 89-run last-wicket partnership with Haris Rauf to help Pakistan complete the chase.
According to the PCB’s official match report and scorecard, Shadab’s innings earned him the Player of the Match award.
Pakistan, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, will face Sri Lanka in the fifth match of the tri-series on October 27 in Lahore.
The final is scheduled for October 31 at Gaddafi Stadium, where Pakistan will look to finish the tournament with another strong performance.
