A Disappointing Outing Against Bangladesh
Pakistan’s young opener Saim Ayub endured another frustrating day at the crease after being dismissed for zero against Bangladesh during the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours. The dismissal marked his sixth duck of the year in T20 internationals, a statistic that has now tied him with Zimbabwe’s Richard Ngarava, who set the same record in 2024.
For Ayub, the unwanted milestone has added pressure on his shoulders as his form continues to dip in a year where expectations had been high.
Six Ducks in Twenty Matches
In 2025, Saim Ayub has featured in 20 T20I matches, yet inconsistency has plagued his performances. The six ducks underline his struggles against both pace and spin, with bowlers targeting his technique early in the innings. While flashes of talent have been visible in patches, his inability to convert starts into meaningful contributions has become a growing concern.
The record now puts Ayub’s name in the global conversation, though not for the reasons he or Pakistan’s fans would have hoped.
Surpassing Shahid Afridi’s Unwanted Record
In addition to equaling the world record for most ducks in a calendar year, Saim Ayub also surpassed Shahid Afridi to become the second-most dismissed Pakistani batter for zero in T20Is. With nine career ducks, he now sits behind only Umar Akmal, who tops the list with 10.
For a young player still trying to cement his spot in the national side, such statistics cast a shadow over his potential. Comparisons with Afridi, a legendary all-rounder known for both brilliance and unpredictability, highlight the magnitude of Ayub’s current struggles.
Pressure Mounts Ahead of South Africa Series
The timing of Ayub’s poor run adds to the pressure, with Pakistan preparing for an important series against South Africa after the Asia Cup. The selectors now face a difficult decision: whether to persist with Ayub in hopes of a turnaround or to explore alternative options at the top of the order.
Fans and analysts alike have begun questioning his place in the squad, noting that repeated failures can impact team morale and stability in high-stakes tournaments. While Pakistan’s batting order has depth, the need for reliable openers remains a priority.
A Crossroads in Saim Ayub’s Career
At just 23, Saim Ayub still has time to refine his game and learn from setbacks. His natural talent, aggressive stroke play, and youthful energy have often been highlighted as reasons for his selection. However, the current slump places him at a crossroads where resilience and mental strength will be crucial.
If he can adapt and rebuild confidence, Ayub may yet fulfill his promise as a consistent performer. For now, however, his name sits alongside records that tell a story of unfulfilled potential and persistent challenges on the international stage.
