Pakistan has once again set the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with arch-rivals India in the Asia Cup. Their 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates in Dubai on Wednesday secured their spot in the next round. However, amidst the team’s success and various off-field narratives, attention remains firmly fixed on young opener Saim Ayub, whose batting struggles persist.
The 23-year-old left-hander recorded his third consecutive duck in the tournament, following similar scores against Oman and India, when he was once again dismissed cheaply against the UAE. While strong performances from Pakistan’s bowlers and Fakhar Zaman’s rapid 50 off 36 balls ultimately rescued the team, questions are increasingly being raised about Saim’s continued presence in the playing XI.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, however, has stepped forward to advocate for patience, passionately defending the youngster and emphasizing his significant contributions with the ball. Latif colorfully described Ayub’s current poor form with a local idiom: “Kabhi kabaar aisa hota hai, banda oont pad baitha hai aur kutta kaat jata hai, uske saath yahi ho raha hai,” which translates 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.” This metaphor suggests an unfortunate run of bad luck despite being in a good position.
Latif continued his spirited defense, stating: “Woh kaha par catch hokar out ho gaya… kabhi yu maara toh out ho gaya, kabhi aise mara toh out ho gaya. Bura time aata hai sabka. Yeh bowling se apne team me khel raha hai. Bade match me kissi me fodega. ya toh phoot jaega ya phod dega.” This translates to: “He’s getting out caught playing various shots; sometimes he tries this and gets out, sometimes that. Everyone goes through a bad patch. He’s currently playing in the team for his bowling. In a big match, he will either fail spectacularly or explode with a big performance.” Latif’s prediction hints at a high-stakes moment for Ayub in a crucial upcoming game.
Indeed, Saim’s right-arm spin has been a surprising asset, having already claimed six wickets in three matches—2 for 8 against Oman, 3 for 35 against India, and 1 for 18 against the UAE. This crucial bowling prowess is a primary factor in his retention within the squad, despite his challenges with the bat.
With both Pakistan and India having successfully qualified from Group A, cricket fans won’t have to wait long to discover if Latif’s bold prophecy will materialize, as the arch-rivals are set to clash once more in Dubai this coming Sunday.