Saim’s "Mystery" Masterclass: Ayub’s Triple-Strike Triggers Dramatic Indian Collapse in Colombo

In a stunning 2026 T20 World Cup turnaround, Saim Ayub single-handedly dismantled India’s dominance at the R. Premadasa Stadium. After Ishan Kishan’s blistering 77 off 40 balls propelled India to a comfortable 125/2, Ayub triggered a dramatic collapse. The game’s complexion shifted entirely in the 15th over when Ayub claimed two wickets in two balls, leaving India reeling at 127/4 in 15 overs. 

Ayub first broke a steady 38-run stand by dismissing Tilak Varma (25), before immediately removing the incoming batter for a golden duck. This double strike silenced the Indian supporters and halted a projected 190+ total. Utilizing the tacky Colombo surface, Ayub’s "mystery" variations and clever pace changes proved unplayable, yielding remarkable figures of 3/25. 

Having already dismissed Kishan earlier, Ayub’s tactical brilliance transformed a dominant Indian masterclass into a desperate rescue mission for captain Suryakumar Yadav, firmly placing Pakistan in the driver’s seat.