Pakistan One-Day International captain Shaheen Shah Afridi has come out in defence of all-rounder Saim Ayub’s inclusion in the national side. He pointed to Saim’s bowling and his value to the team’s balance ahead of the ODI tri-series involving England and Sri Lanka.
Speaking at the captains’ press conference on Saturday, Afridi responded to criticism of Saim’s selection. A journalist asked whether the left-handed batter was being kept in the squad despite a poor recent run, and Afridi rejected that suggestion. He said Saim remains an important figure in the ODI setup because he can contribute with both bat and ball.
Captain points to Saim’s recent struggles
Afridi said he was unsure what the media was saying, but suggested people may be focusing on Saim’s recent difficulties in T20 internationals or his showing in the last Test against England. “I don’t know what the media is saying about Saim Ayub, but perhaps people are looking at his recent struggles in T20Is or his performance in the last Test against England,” he said.
He also explained that Saim had arrived on the England tour straight from T20 cricket in the CPL. In his view, moving directly into Test cricket is hard, and that context should be considered.
Spin option gives Pakistan more flexibility
Afridi stressed the value of Saim’s spin bowling, arguing that it gives Pakistan greater flexibility in its attack. “We need his bowling because it provides a cushion for our fast bowlers,” he explained.
He added that if the team fields three or four pacers, having an all-rounder who can bowl spin helps the side’s balance. Afridi also expressed confidence that regular chances in the 50-over format would help Saim regain his form, saying the more opportunities he receives in ODIs, the more he will perform for Pakistan.
Shaheen calls for positive coverage of the squad
The Pakistan captain said the team’s preparations centre on winning matches rather than studying how rivals play. “We are not looking at how other teams are playing. Our target and planning are simply to win matches,” he stated.
Asked about the atmosphere in the dressing room, Afridi said the players remained united in their ambition to succeed internationally. “Our team’s unity is strong, and all of us are focused on how we can win the World Cup,” he said.
He urged the media to highlight the squad’s collective effort and positive environment rather than focusing only on criticism. “Some positive messages should also come through you [journalists], so that the public knows this team is united and is trying to play good cricket,” he remarked, adding that all players were working hard to perform well and bring happiness to the country.
