Pakistan’s Saim Ayub hits record low in T20I cricket: Key stats

Asia Cup 2025: Saim Ayub Sets an Unwanted Record

By Parth Dhall | Sep 29, 2025 | 05:19 pm

What’s the story?

Pakistan opener Saim Ayub endured a disappointing run in the recently concluded Men’s T20 Asia Cup. Despite being regarded as one of the most talented openers, Ayub averaged just 5.28 with the bat throughout the tournament. This marks the second-lowest batting average for a top-order batter (positions 1-3) in a T20I series, according to Cricbuzz. His struggles included four ducks during the competition.

Underperformance: Second-Lowest Average by a Top-Order Player

Ayub’s poor form significantly affected Pakistan’s top order. In seven innings, he managed to score only 37 runs, resulting in an average of 5.28. As per Cricbuzz statistics, this is the second-lowest average ever recorded by a top-order player in a T20I series contested between Full Member nations.

The only player with a lower average is Zimbabwe’s Regis Chakabva, who averaged 5 during the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup.

Performance Breakdown: His Asia Cup 2025 Journey

Throughout the Asia Cup 2025, Ayub’s batting troubles continued unabated. He started the tournament opening the innings but was eventually demoted down the order in an attempt to find form. Unfortunately, these changes did not pay off.

His scores included three consecutive ducks in matches against Oman, India, and UAE, with an additional duck against Bangladesh. The only relatively better performances were scores of 21 and 14 in the other two games against India.

Effective with the Ball

While Ayub’s batting was below par, his contributions with the ball were noteworthy. The off-spinner took 8 wickets in 7 matches at an impressive average of 16.00 during the Asia Cup. Additionally, his economy rate was a commendable 6.40, adding valuable support to Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Overall T20I Career So Far

Since making his debut in 2023, Saim Ayub has played 48 T20I matches. In this span, he has accumulated 853 runs at an average of 19.38. His strike rate stands at a healthy 134.11, and he has recorded four half-centuries in T20I cricket.

Despite his struggles in the 2025 Asia Cup, Ayub remains a promising talent with all-round capabilities to bounce back in future tournaments.

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