Saim Ayub released from Pakistan squad for remaining tri-series matches

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released opening batter Saim Ayub from the national squad for the remaining matches of the tri-nation ODI series after he requested permission to play domestic cricket to improve his batting form.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said Ayub discussed the request with head coach Mike Hesson, and the team management and selection committee jointly approved it. The PCB said it respected his decision.

Ayub scored just 21 runs in the first three matches of the series. T20 captain Sahibzada Farhan has been called up as his replacement and is expected to join the national squad soon.

Farhan is currently in Kathmandu for the Nepal Premier League and will return to Pakistan on the first available flight, according to sources.

The PCB also released spinner Sufiyan Muqeem from the squad a day earlier, bringing in Maaz Sadaqat to improve the team’s balance.

Pakistan have already qualified for the tri-series final after beating England by one wicket in a thrilling match, thanks to a century by Shadab Khan.

Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in the fifth match of the series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Tuesday.