Saim Ayub Released from Pakistan ODI Tri-Series Squad to Regain Domestic Form; Sahibzada Farhan Named Replacement
LAHORE — October 26, 2026 — The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday announced the release of opening batsman Saim Ayub from the national squad for the remainder of the ongoing ODI tri-series, enabling the young cricketer to return to domestic fixtures and rebuild his batting rhythm.
Mutual Decision Aimed at Form Recovery
According to official board statements, Saim requested a temporary withdrawal from international duties following a candid consultation with head coach Mike Hesson. The team management and national selection committee consented to the request, commending the player’s transparent self-assessment regarding his recent run drought.
The development follows Pakistan’s dramatic one-wicket victory over England at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, where Saim contributed just six runs before being dismissed by debutant fast bowler Henry Crocombe. Despite securing three consecutive victories and already locking in a berth for the tournament final—where they are scheduled to face Sri Lanka on Tuesday—the technical staff opted to grant the struggling opener a tactical break.
Sahibzada Farhan Called Up as Replacement
To fill the vacancy left in the squad, the selection committee has named top-order batter Sahibzada Farhan as Saim’s replacement for the concluding fixtures of the tri-series.
Sources indicate that Farhan, who was fulfilling overseas commitments in Kathmandu for the Nepal Premier League (NPL), has been recalled and is scheduled to board the earliest available flight back to Pakistan to integrate with the national camp ahead of the final stages.
