LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released young batter Saim Ayub from the national squad for the remainder of the ongoing ODI tri-series, allowing him to return to domestic cricket and work on his batting form.
In a statement issued on Monday, the PCB said Saim had requested to return to domestic cricket after a discussion with head coach Mike Hesson.
The team management and national selection committee accepted his request. The board said they respected his decision and appreciated his honest assessment of his current form.
Sahibzada Farhan Named as Replacement
The national selection committee has named Sahibzada Farhan as Saim’s replacement for the remaining matches of the tournament.
However, Farhan is currently in Kathmandu, where he is participating in the Nepal Premier League. According to sources, he will return to Pakistan on the first available flight to join the national squad.
Pakistan Qualify for Tri-Series Final
Pakistan have already secured a place in the tri-series final after winning their first three matches.
The team will face Sri Lanka in the fifth match of the tournament at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday, October 27.
Pakistan booked their place in the final after a thrilling one-wicket victory over England at the same venue on Sunday.
Saim, however, struggled to make an impact during the run chase. He scored just six runs before debutant Henry Crocombe dismissed him.
His return to domestic cricket is expected to provide an opportunity to regain confidence and improve his batting form ahead of future international assignments.
