The PCB accepts Saim Ayub’s request to return to domestic cricket and regain batting confidence, with Sahibzada Farhan named as his replacement for the remainder of the tri-series.
LAHORE, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Pakistan opener Saim Ayub has been released from the national squad for the remainder of the ongoing ODI tri-series to work on his batting form and regain confidence, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Monday.
The PCB said the decision followed a conversation between Ayub and head coach Mike Hesson. The team management and national selection committee accepted the batter’s request to return to domestic cricket.
The board said it respected Ayub’s decision and appreciated his assessment of his current form.
Sahibzada Farhan Replaces Saim Ayub
The national selection committee has named Sahibzada Farhan as Ayub’s replacement for the remaining matches of the tri-series, according to the PCB.
Farhan was in Kathmandu for the Nepal Premier League and was expected to return to Pakistan on the first available flight to join the national team, Geo News reported, citing sources.
The PCB has not specified how long Ayub will remain in domestic cricket or outlined a timeline for his possible return to the national ODI squad.
Ayub Struggles for Runs Against England
Ayub’s release follows a difficult run with the bat during the tri-series. He scored six runs before being dismissed by England debutant Henry Crocombe during Pakistan’s dramatic one-wicket victory over England at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday.
Despite the early dismissal, Pakistan recovered from a precarious position to chase down England’s target of 242 runs. Shadab Khan scored an unbeaten century, while Haris Rauf supported him in a decisive last-wicket partnership.
Pakistan secured victory with one wicket remaining, confirming their place in the tri-series final.
Pakistan Prepare for Sri Lanka Clash
Pakistan are scheduled to face Sri Lanka in their next league match at Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday, October 27.
The team has already qualified for the final after winning its first three matches of the competition. The final is scheduled for October 31 at the same venue.
The remaining fixture will give Pakistan an opportunity to assess its batting combinations ahead of the final.
Ayub’s release provides the left-handed batter an opportunity to work on his technique and rebuild confidence through domestic cricket. His future return to the national ODI side will depend on subsequent selection decisions.
