Double Setback for Pakistan as Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out of Australia Series

Pakistan have been dealt a big setback ahead of their upcoming ODI series against Australia, as opening batters Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub have been ruled out due to injuries.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed recently that both players are currently in rehabilitation with the board’s medical team and will not be ready in time for selection in the three-match ODI series against Australia.

“The PCB wishes both players a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing them return to competitive cricket at the earliest opportunity. Further updates regarding the squad and player fitness will be shared in due course.” said the official PCB statement.

The Pakistan vs Australia ODI series will start on May 30 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The next two matches are set to be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on June 2 and June 4.

Missing Saim Ayub is a big setback for Pakistan, as the young opener has made a strong impact in ODI cricket since his debut in 2024. In 17 ODI matches, the left-handed batter has scored 751 runs with an average of 46.93 and a strike rate of 100. His record includes three hundreds and three half-centuries.

Meanwhile, Fakhar Zaman’s injury is also a big concern for Pakistan. He has been a key batter for the green shirts in ODIs since his debut in 2017. The left-handed star has scored 3,861 runs in 92 matches at an average of 45.42, including 11 centuries and 19 fifties.

Speaking about the Australian side, they have picked a fairly young and less experienced squad for the Pakistan tour. Teen batter Oliver Peake and all-rounder Liam Scott have been called up for the first time, suggesting that the management is keen to test the bench strength in the upcoming matches.

Regular captain Pat Cummins, along with senior fast bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, have not been included as the management has given them rest ahead of the busy home season.

Mitchell Marsh is all set to lead the side in which some other notable names like Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Adam Zampa, and Marnus Labuschagne have also been included.