Saim Ayub’s performances in the ninth edition of Pakistan Super League have been nothing short of spectacular. The 21-year-old was already expected to give his one hundred per cent as a primary top-order batter, however, the cricket fans did not expect top-notch bowling spells from Saim, known as a batter.
Hailing from Karachi and representing Peshawar Zalmi, Saim not only impressed with important runs but also managed to take crucial wickets for his team. The spectators, throughout the PSL 9, were in awe of his performances as he emerged as a potent all-rounder, catching selectors’ eyes.
Under social media posts, many cricket fans and experts were noticed discussing whether Saim will be given a chance to bowl a couple of overs in Pakistan’s upcoming T20I encounters.
At the conclusion of the round-robin stage of the league, he is already among the top 10 run-scorers. With 271 runs under his belt from nine innings at an average of 30.11, he managed a top-score of 88. This best batting performance of the season came against Lahore Qalandars, which also earned him a Player of the Match award.
Apart from expected batting shows, he stole the limelight with some economical spells and exceptional wicket-taking abilities. Bowling in seven matches, the Karachi-born bagged six wickets with a best of 2/15 against two-time PSL champions Islamabad United.
Some of his other bowling performances include 1/18 versus Karachi Kings in Zalmi’s closing game of the league stage and 2/20 against Quetta Gladiators in Rawalpindi. 1/24 against Islamabad United is also worth mentioning. During that match, Saim once again showed his all-around prowess scoring a solid 38.
On the batting front, 30 against Gladiators, 46 facing off table-toppers Multan Sultans, and 42 during Zalmi’s opener against Gladiators are also worth mentioning.
It remains to be seen if the national selectors will utilize Saim’s services as a bowler in Pakistan’s upcoming T20I endeavours.
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