Former England captain Nasser Hussain says sending Saim Ayub directly from T20 cricket into a Test match in England showed a lack of respect for the demands of Test cricket.
Web Desk: Former England captain Nasser Hussain has criticised Pakistan’s decision to select Saim Ayub for the third Test against England, arguing that bringing the batter directly from T20 cricket into demanding Test conditions showed a lack of respect for the longest format.
Ayub was called into Pakistan’s reshuffled squad after playing for Jamaica Kings in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). He had not played a first-class match since October 2025 before being brought into the Test squad in England.
Hussain Questions Saim Ayub Selection
Speaking on Sky Sports, Hussain said Ayub had been placed in an extremely difficult situation by being moved from a completely different format into Test cricket in England.
He questioned the decision to fly the batter from the CPL and expect him to immediately perform against England’s bowling attack with the Dukes ball, particularly in the challenging conditions for opening batters in England.
Hussain described the move as a “disrespect and disregard for Test match cricket”, stressing that Test cricket is widely regarded as the toughest format and that opening in England presents a particularly demanding challenge.
Ayub Struggles on Test Return
Ayub’s selection came after Pakistan made significant changes to their squad during the three-Test series.
He was given an opportunity to open the innings at Edgbaston but was dismissed for a duck in both innings, with England seamer Ollie Robinson taking his wicket on each occasion.
Pakistan were also struggling collectively in the third Test. England dominated the early stages of the match, continuing a difficult series for the visitors.
Hussain Compares Ayub With Sehwag
Hussain also referred to former India opener Virender Sehwag while explaining his criticism.
He recalled that Sehwag had previously been brought into the Indian side at the same venue without adequate preparation and was dismissed for a pair. Hussain noted that Sehwag was a more experienced batter than Ayub at the time, making the comparison particularly relevant to his argument about preparation for Test cricket.
Hussain nevertheless acknowledged that Ayub also had some responsibility for his dismissal, but maintained that the selection decision itself deserved scrutiny.
Wider Concerns Over Pakistan Cricket
Hussain’s criticism comes amid a turbulent period for Pakistan cricket during the England tour.
Pakistan made extensive changes to their squad after the first two Tests, sending several players home and bringing in replacements, including Ayub. The Pakistan Cricket Board also made changes to the coaching staff during the series.
Hussain has separately criticised the PCB’s handling of players, arguing that repeatedly changing personnel and sending players home during a Test series can affect team morale and create uncertainty within the squad.
The former England captain said players need to feel that the team and board are supporting them, particularly during difficult periods.
Pakistan Under Pressure in England
Pakistan entered the third Test already 2-0 down in the series after heavy defeats in the opening matches.
The Edgbaston Test has continued the difficult run, with England putting Pakistan under considerable pressure with both bat and ball.
Hussain’s comments have therefore added to the debate over Pakistan’s selection strategy, particularly the decision to bring players into Test cricket without extensive preparation in the format.
The series continues at Edgbaston, with Pakistan seeking to avoid a clean sweep by England.
