Pakistan release Saim Ayub from ODI tri-series squad, Farhan replaces him

LAHORE: Pakistan have released opener Saim Ayub from their squad for the ODI tri-series and included T20I captain Sahibzada Farhan as his replacement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said.

The PCB said the decision was taken at Ayub’s request as the batter looks to regain his form in domestic cricket. The board said it respected his decision and had advised him to play domestic cricket.

The move comes after Ayub endured a disappointing run with both bat and ball in Pakistan’s opening three matches of the tri-series, scoring just 21 runs without taking a wicket.

Farhan, meanwhile, joins the ODI squad after an impressive performance in Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Sri Lanka, which the hosts won 2-1.

Farhan earns call-up after Sri Lanka series

Farhan scored 238 runs in three matches against Sri Lanka and was named player of the series. He is currently the captain of Pakistan’s T20I side.

His inclusion provides Pakistan with a replacement for Ayub as the team prepares for the tri-series final.

The PCB had also released left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem from the tri-series squad a day earlier.

Ayub struggles in three matches

Ayub’s struggles in the tri-series began against Sri Lanka, when he managed just seven runs and failed to take a wicket.

He scored eight runs without taking a wicket in Pakistan’s second match against England before managing only six runs in their third game against the same opposition on Saturday.

The 24-year-old’s total of 21 runs across three matches fell short of expectations, prompting his request to return to domestic cricket to work on his batting form.

Pakistan reach final unbeaten

Pakistan have won all three of their matches to qualify for the final of the tri-series.

They opened their campaign with a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka before defeating England by 87 runs in their second match.

Pakistan then beat England in a closely contested third match to secure their place in the final, maintaining their unbeaten record in the tournament.