NEW DELHI: Pakistan has successfully secured another high-stakes showdown against their traditional rivals, India, in the ongoing Asia Cup. This came after a decisive 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates in Dubai on Wednesday. However, amidst the celebrations and a flurry of off-field controversies, a spotlight remains firmly fixed on young opener Saim Ayub, whose struggles with the bat have unfortunately continued.
Saim Ayub of Pakistan walks off after another disappointing dismissal. (Getty Images)
The 23-year-old left-handed batsman suffered his third consecutive duck in the tournament, having already been dismissed for naught against Oman and India. His recent dismissal against the UAE further fueled concerns. While strong performances from Pakistan’s bowlers and Fakhar Zaman’s rapid 50 off just 36 balls ultimately secured the team’s win, Saim’s consistent failures are raising serious questions about his spot in the playing XI.
However, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has stepped forward to defend the young player, urging patience and emphasizing Ayub’s valuable contributions with the ball. Latif used a vivid metaphor to describe the batsman’s current form, stating, “Kabhi kabaar aisa hota hai, banda oont pad baitha hai aur kutta kaat jata hai, uske saath yahi ho raha hai.” This translates roughly to: “Sometimes it happens that a person is sitting on a camel, and a dog still bites him – that’s what’s happening with him.” It’s a colorful way to say he’s having some unlucky breaks despite being in a good position.
Latif further elaborated on Ayub’s dismissals, noting, “He’s getting out in various ways – sometimes caught, sometimes trying to hit big. Everyone goes through tough patches. He’s currently playing in the team for his bowling contributions. In a big match, he will either explode with a major performance or he’ll simply flounder. He’ll either fail spectacularly or deliver a masterclass.” Latif’s strong belief suggests that Ayub has the potential to turn things around when it matters most.
Indeed, Ayub’s right-arm spin has been a significant asset, already claiming six wickets in just three matches: an impressive 2/8 against Oman, 3/35 versus India, and 1/18 against the UAE. These bowling heroics are undoubtedly a major factor in his continued inclusion in the squad despite his struggles at the crease.
With both Pakistan and India having comfortably qualified from Group A, cricket fans won’t have to wait long to discover if Latif’s bold prediction for Saim Ayub will materialize. The two arch-rivals are set to face off once more in a highly anticipated match in Dubai this Sunday.