Saim Ayub Released From Pakistan ODI Squad, Farhan Replaces Him

Pakistan have released opening batter Saim Ayub from their squad for the remainder of the ODI tri-series against England and Sri Lanka after he requested to return to domestic cricket to work on his batting form and regain confidence.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the decision on Monday, October 26, following a discussion between Ayub and head coach Mike Hesson. The team management and national selection committee accepted the left-hander’s request and named Sahibzada Farhan as his replacement.

Ayub has struggled to produce runs during the ongoing competition, scoring just 21 runs in three matches. His departure gives him an opportunity to work on his batting away from the national setup.

According to the PCB, the decision followed Ayub’s own assessment of his current form. The board did not announce how long he would spend playing domestic cricket.

Saim Ayub’s Recent ODI Form

The 24-year-old has built a strong record in the 50-over format since making his international debut. He has scored 772 runs in 20 ODIs at an average of 40.63, including three centuries and three half-centuries.

His recent returns, however, have been less consistent. Ayub has accumulated 257 runs at an average of 23.36 across his last 11 ODI innings, with two half-centuries during that stretch.

His struggles continued in the tri-series, where he managed only 21 runs across three appearances. He scored six in Pakistan’s latest match against England on Sunday.

Sahibzada Farhan Gets an ODI Call-Up

Sahibzada Farhan replaces Saim Ayub in the squad for the remainder of the tournament. The right-handed batter currently captains Pakistan’s T20I side and now has another opportunity to feature in the ODI setup.

He has played six ODIs for Pakistan, scoring 101 runs at an average of 16.83. His international experience in the format remains limited compared with Ayub’s.

Pakistan have already qualified for the tri-series final after winning three consecutive matches. Their latest victory came against England, when Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf produced a remarkable last-wicket stand to complete a one-wicket chase.

Shadab Khan Leads Pakistan’s Comeback

Chasing England’s target of 242, Pakistan slipped to 154-9 and appeared close to defeat. Shadab then took control of the innings, finishing unbeaten on 113 off 96 balls.

He shared an unbroken 89-run partnership with Rauf, who scored seven off 19 deliveries, to guide Pakistan home with one wicket remaining.

Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in their next tri-series match at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Tuesday, October 27. The final is scheduled for October 31.

With Ayub returning to domestic cricket and Farhan joining the ODI squad, Pakistan have made a change to their batting options ahead of the tournament’s final stages.