Sadiq Mohammad Questions Saim Ayub’s Role in Pakistan T20I Squad

KARACHI, PAKISTAN — October 12, 2026: Former Pakistan Test opener Sadiq Mohammad has questioned Saim Ayub’s continued selection in the national T20 International squad, arguing that the team’s batting combination is limiting opportunities for specialist middle-order players.

Sadiq said the decision to accommodate Saim in different batting positions was unfair to other batters competing for places in the lineup. He also questioned whether Saim’s ability to bowl a few overs of finger spin justified the flexibility being given to him.

“The coaches, selection committee and captain are destroying the middle order,” Sadiq said, criticising the team management’s approach to batting positions.

Sadiq Backs Sajid Khan as Spin Option

The former opener proposed Pakistan off-spinner Sajid Khan as an alternative if the team wanted to include a third specialist spinner in its T20I combination.

Sadiq highlighted Sajid’s ability to extract turn, contribute with the bat and perform well in the field. He compared the proposed role with the power-hitting position previously occupied by Iftikhar Ahmed, who was often used to accelerate scoring in the closing overs.

Sajid has played 16 Test matches for Pakistan but has had limited opportunities in the national T20 setup. His potential inclusion would represent a different approach to balancing spin bowling with lower-order batting strength.

Sadiq’s suggestion is a selection opinion; Pakistan’s team management has not announced a change to the squad on that basis.

Saim Batting at Number Five

Saim Ayub has been included in Pakistan’s squad for the ongoing three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. He has been batting at number five, despite primarily being known as a top-order batter.

The presence of four specialist openers in the squad has prompted questions about how the team intends to structure its batting order and allocate roles to players lower down the lineup.

Saim took one wicket for 19 runs in his three overs during Sunday’s match, according to the published report. That bowling contribution adds context to the debate over his value as an all-round option, although a single performance does not determine a player’s overall suitability for the format.

Pakistan Face Selection Questions

Sahibzada Farhan is leading Pakistan in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, with the final match scheduled for October 13 in Rawalpindi.

The series provides the team management with an opportunity to assess batting combinations, bowling options and the roles of players competing for places in the side.

Sadiq’s comments add to the debate over whether Pakistan should prioritise flexible all-rounders or give more defined roles to specialist batters. Any changes to Saim’s position or Sajid’s prospects, however, remain a matter for the selectors and team management.