The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released Saim Ayub from Pakistan’s squad for the ongoing ODI tri-series involving Sri Lanka and England. Sahibzada Farhan has been named as his replacement for the remainder of the tournament.
Ayub has struggled to make an impact in the competition so far. He scored just six runs in Pakistan’s thrilling one-wicket win over England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday. Pakistan were in trouble during the chase before Shadab Khan’s unbeaten 113 helped them cross the finish line.
Why Has Saim Ayub Been Released From Pakistan’s Squad?
According to the PCB, Ayub spoke to head coach Mike Hesson and requested permission to return to domestic cricket. The left-handed batter wants to work on his batting and regain his confidence after a difficult run of performances.
The board respected his request and agreed to release him from the squad.
“Respecting Saim’s decision and appreciating his honest assessment of his current form, the team management and national selection committee have mutually agreed to accept this request,” the PCB said in a statement on Monday.
The board also confirmed that Farhan would take Ayub’s place for the remaining matches of the tri-series.
ALSO READ: Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf Script World Record As Pakistan Pull Off Historic Chase Against England
Recommended For You
Who Is Sahibzada Farhan?
Farhan was not part of Pakistan’s original squad for the tri-series. However, the batter has recently been given an important role in the country’s T20 setup.
He was appointed captain of Pakistan’s T20 team for the series against Sri Lanka this month and also led the side at the Asian Games. He will now join the ODI squad for the remainder of the ongoing tournament. Notably, Sahibzada Farhan sparked controversy by celebrating his half-century with a gun-firing / AK-47 mimicked gesture using his bat during the Asia Cup 2025 clash against India at Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.
Second Change To Pakistan’s Squad In Two Days
Ayub’s release comes a day after Pakistan made another change to their squad. Left-arm spinner Sufiyan Moqim was released on Sunday, with the PCB citing the nature of the pitches in Lahore.
The team management brought in 21-year-old left-handed batter Maaz Sadaqat as cover for players dealing with minor niggles.
Pakistan are hosting their first ODI tri-series at home since 2004. The tournament features Pakistan, Sri Lanka and England, with each team scheduled to face the other two twice in the league stage.
The top two teams will qualify for the final, which is scheduled to take place in Lahore on October 31.
What’s Next For Pakistan In The Tri-Series?
Pakistan have already secured their place in the final after winning three consecutive matches. They will take on Sri Lanka in the fifth match of the tournament at the Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday.
England, meanwhile, are yet to register a win in their three matches. They remain in contention for a place in the final but need Pakistan to beat Sri Lanka before securing a victory over Sri Lanka themselves. England will also need to win by a margin sufficient to overcome their disadvantage in net run rate.