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DUBAI: Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha has thrown his weight behind out-of-form batter Saim Ayub ahead of the blockbuster ACC Asia Cup 2025 final against India, set to be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Ayub has endured a torrid run with the bat in the tournament, scoring just 23 runs in six innings at a poor average of 3.83 and a strike rate of 85.18, including four ducks.
However, the left-hander has made up for his struggles with the bat by delivering handy contributions with the ball, taking eight wickets in five innings at an impressive average of 14.00.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Salman Ali Agha acknowledged the scrutiny on Ayub’s place in the XI but insisted that the youngster deserves backing, given his all-round value and long-term potential.
“I think Saim Ayub is such a player who can serve Pakistan for the next 10 years, and I am really hoping that he does,” Agha said.
“So, it is essential to back such individuals until a situation arises where it becomes absolutely necessary to make a change.”
Highlighting Ayub’s consistent efforts in the field and with the ball, the captain underlined his faith in the 24-year-old to come good with the bat when it matters most.
“You have seen his bowling and fielding, he is contributing in every game. There has not been a single match where he has not contributed,” he added.
“Yes, he could not perform with the bat, but I am fully confident that he will play one good innings in the final.”
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