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

**Asia Cup 2025: Saim Ayub Sets Unwanted Record**

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

Pakistan opener Saim Ayub endured a challenging tournament in the recently concluded Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025. Despite being regarded as one of the most talented openers, Ayub struggled with the bat, managing an average of just 5.28 throughout the competition. This unfortunate performance marks the second-lowest batting average for a top-order player (positions 1-3) in a T20I series, according to Cricbuzz. His dismal run included four ducks during the event.

### A Difficult Asia Cup for Ayub

Ayub’s underwhelming form significantly impacted Pakistan’s top order. Across seven innings, he scored only 37 runs, averaging a mere 5.28. Cricbuzz notes that this is the second-lowest average recorded by any top-order batter in a T20I series between Full Member nations. The only player with a worse average is Zimbabwe’s Regis Chakabva, who averaged 5 during the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup.

Starting the tournament as an opener, Ayub was eventually moved down the batting order as his struggles continued. His scores included three consecutive ducks against Oman, India, and the UAE, followed by another duck against Bangladesh. The only respite came in two matches against India, where he scored 21 and 14 runs respectively.

### Strength with the Ball

Although Ayub found runs hard to come by, he proved effective with his off-spin bowling. He took eight wickets in seven matches during the Asia Cup, maintaining an impressive average of 16.00 and an economy rate of 6.40. His bowling efforts were a bright spot amid his batting woes.

### Career Overview

Since making his T20I debut in 2023, Saim Ayub has played 48 matches, accumulating 853 runs at an average of 19.38. He boasts a strike rate of 134.11 and has scored four half-centuries in this format so far. Despite the recent setback in the Asia Cup, Ayub remains a promising talent for Pakistan’s cricket future.

Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the Asia Cup and international cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-s-saim-ayub-hits-record-low-in-t20i-cricket/story

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.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-s-saim-ayub-hits-record-low-in-t20i-cricket/story

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

Asia Cup 2025: Saim Ayub Sets Unwanted Record

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

What’s the story?

Pakistan opener Saim Ayub endured a difficult tournament in the recently concluded Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025. Despite being one of the most talented batsmen in the lineup, Ayub struggled with the bat, averaging just 5.28 throughout the series. This unfortunate performance has now placed him with the second-lowest average for a top-order batter (positions 1-3) in a T20I series, according to Cricbuzz.

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

Ayub’s poor run with the bat was a significant concern for Pakistan’s top order. Over seven innings, he managed only 37 runs, resulting in a dismal average of 5.28. Cricbuzz notes that this is the second-lowest average by any top-order player in a T20I series between Full Member nations. The only lower average was registered by Zimbabwe’s Regis Chakabva, who averaged five during the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup.

Performance Breakdown: Ayub’s Journey Through Asia Cup 2025

Throughout the Asia Cup 2025, Ayub’s form steadily declined. He started the tournament opening the innings but was later demoted down the order in an attempt to revive his performance. Unfortunately, these changes did not help. His batting included four ducks, with three consecutive zeroes against Oman, India, and UAE, followed by another duck versus Bangladesh. His only notable scores were 21 and 14 in two separate matches against India.

Effective with the Ball

Though Ayub struggled with the bat, he was surprisingly effective as a bowler during the tournament. The off-spinner claimed eight wickets in seven matches at an impressive average of 16.00. Additionally, he maintained a tight economy rate of 6.40, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s bowling efforts.

Ayub’s Overall T20I Record

Since making his international T20 debut in 2023, Saim Ayub has played 48 T20I matches, accumulating 853 runs at an average of 19.38. He holds a strike rate of 134.11 and has registered four half-centuries in the format so far.

While Ayub’s recent performance at the Asia Cup was disappointing, his overall career shows promise. Fans and experts alike will be hoping he can bounce back stronger in upcoming series.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-s-saim-ayub-hits-record-low-in-t20i-cricket/story

Ashwin highlights flaws in Harshit Rana’s spell against SL

**‘Amateurish’: Ashwin Highlights Flaws in Harshit Rana’s Spell Against Sri Lanka**

*By Parth Dhall | Sep 27, 2025, 03:20 PM*

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has pointed out several flaws in pacer Harshit Rana’s bowling during India’s 2025 Asia Cup Super 4 clash against Sri Lanka. The match, played at the Dubai International Stadium on Friday, saw Harshit struggle with his bowling rhythm as he conceded 54 runs in four overs, taking just one wicket. Despite his performance, India secured a thrilling win through a Super Over.

### Harshit Rana’s Performance Analysis

In only his second match of the tournament, Harshit found it difficult to adapt to the Dubai conditions. The Delhi pacer leaked runs heavily in his first three overs, failing to find his usual rhythm. However, he made a notable comeback in his final over by dismissing Sri Lanka’s explosive batsman Pathum Nissanka, who had scored a quickfire 107 off 58 balls.

### Ashwin’s Candid Criticism

Speaking on his YouTube channel *Ash Ki Baat*, Ashwin did not hold back while analyzing Harshit’s bowling. He emphasized the importance of consistent game time, stating, “Playing just a few matches, then sitting out others, can really affect confidence and rhythm.” Ashwin described some of Harshit’s mistakes as “really amateurish” and urged the young pacer to learn from these experiences.

### Bowling Style Under the Scanner

Ashwin also critiqued Harshit’s bowling approach, pointing out its predictability. “One fast, one slow, one fast, one slow. That’s really amateurish cricket,” Ashwin commented, highlighting the need for variation and smarter tactics in his spells.

### Team Selection and Stats

Harshit Rana was included in the playing XI in place of Shivam Dube for the Sri Lanka match. Previously, he had featured against Oman in a dead rubber game during the same tournament.

To date, Harshit has represented India in two Test matches, five ODIs, and three T20Is but is yet to firmly establish himself across formats. Overall, his domestic career boasts 48 T20, 32 List A, and 50 First-Class wickets.

Harshit’s performance and Ashwin’s frank critique underscore the challenges young bowlers face in international cricket, especially when dealing with inconsistent opportunities and the pressure of big tournaments like the Asia Cup. It remains to be seen how Harshit adapts and grows from this experience moving forward.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-ashwin-highlights-harshit-rana-s-shortcomings/story

“Definitely not his best tournament” – Dinesh Karthik’s big statement on all-rounder after IND vs SL Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match

Former India keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has expressed disappointment over experienced all-rounder Axar Patel’s below-par performance in the Asia Cup 2025. According to Karthik, the versatile cricketer has not been at his best with either the bat or the ball so far in the tournament.

Axar has played all of India’s matches in Asia Cup 2025 to date. In six games, the left-arm spinner has claimed four wickets at an average of 28 and an economy rate of 7. With the bat, he has scored 57 runs in three innings at a strike rate of 132.55.

In the Super 4 match against Sri Lanka on Friday, September 26, the 31-year-old proved expensive, finishing with figures of 0-32 from three overs. During a discussion on Cricbuzz, Karthik agreed with the observation that the experienced cricketer has not been in good form in the Asia Cup.

He commented, “I think he’s been slightly off-color in this tournament so far. With the bat as well, a bit rusty. With the ball, he’s tended to bowl slightly short in trying to preempt what the batsman is doing. But you’ve got to back him. He’s been such an elite bowler and a terrific performer in T20 cricket. But it’s definitely not been his best tournament, without a doubt.”

Despite a disappointing overall showing, Axar has had some notable moments in the T20 tournament. The Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper registered figures of 2-18 against Pakistan in the group game. He also contributed with the bat, scoring 26 off 13 balls against Oman and an unbeaten 21 off 15 against Sri Lanka on Friday.

### “Very ordinary” – Dinesh Karthik on India’s fielding in Asia Cup 2025

India’s fielding in the Asia Cup 2025 has been below par. The Men in Blue dropped a number of easy catches in the Super 4 clashes against Pakistan and Bangladesh. While their fielding improved somewhat against Sri Lanka, there were still some sloppy moments.

Reflecting on India’s poor show in the field heading into the final, Karthik said, “In this tournament, India is head and shoulders above everybody else with batting and bowling, but very ordinary on the field. I don’t think you can not speak about that. It’s an area to be addressed, but it’s a bit too late in this tournament.”

### Asia Cup 2025 Final: India vs Pakistan

Having beaten Pakistan twice—once in the group stage and again in the Super 4 round—the Men in Blue will face off against their rivals once more in the Asia Cup 2025 final. The much-anticipated clash is scheduled to take place in Dubai on Sunday, September 28. Given Axar Patel’s experience and the team’s trust in his abilities, Indian team management is likely to back him for the crucial final despite his recent struggles.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-dinesh-karthik-big-statement-axar-patel-ind-vs-sl-asia-cup-2025-super-4-match

IND Vs SL, Asia Cup 2025, Super 4 Match: Team India Seals A Thrilling Victory In Super Over Against Sri Lanka, Will Next Face Pakistan For The Championship

In one of the most dramatic matches of the Asia Cup 2025, India edged past Sri Lanka in a Super Over thriller during the Super 4 stage in Dubai. After both teams ended their 20-over innings tied at 202/5, the match was decided in a nail-biting Super Over that had fans on the edge of their seats.

India batted first and posted a strong total of 202/5, thanks to a fiery 61-run knock from Abhishek Sharma, who continued his fine form in the tournament. Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma added crucial runs in the final overs to push India past the 200-run mark.

Sri Lanka responded in style, with opener Pathum Nissanka playing one of the finest innings of his career. He scored a stunning 107 runs, anchoring the chase and keeping Sri Lanka in the hunt till the final ball. His brilliant century ensured the match went down to the wire, with Sri Lanka also ending their innings on 202/5.

### Arshdeep Singh Stars in the Super Over

Sri Lanka batted first in the one-over eliminator but faltered under pressure. Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh bowled a sensational over, taking two wickets and conceding just two runs in five balls. The pressure was squarely on India’s batters to finish the job.

India responded emphatically. Facing the very first ball of the Super Over, Suryakumar Yadav sealed the match for India with three runs off just one delivery. His calm presence and clean shot ensured India walked away with the victory.

With this thrilling win, India sends a strong message to their archrivals Pakistan, whom they are set to face next in the Asia Cup final.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/ind-vs-sl-asia-cup-2025-super-4-manic-clash-set-to-go-to-super-over-after-pathum-nissankas-belligerent-century

Abhishek Sharma Gets Run Out For 75 As Bangladesh Pulls Off Stunning Fielding Masterclass During IND Vs BAN Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 Clash; Video

In a dramatic moment during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash, Indian batter Abhishek Sharma was run out in a spectacular piece of fielding by Bangladesh, leaving fans stunned.

The sequence began when Mustafizur Rahman bowled a back-of-a-length delivery to Suryakumar Yadav, who guided it delicately towards backward point. Rishad Hossain, showcasing flawless reflexes, dove to his left, intercepted the ball mid-air, and quickly regained his footing to make a precision throw towards the bowling end.

The ball reached Mustafizur Rahman, who executed the finish with incredible speed and coordination. Turning sharply, Rahman collected the throw, balanced perfectly, and broke the stumps with his left hand while maintaining control of the ball. Despite a desperate dive from Abhishek Sharma, he fell well short of the crease, sealing a stunning dismissal for Bangladesh.

The run-out highlighted the growing confidence and agility of the Bangladesh fielders, particularly Rishad Hossain, who has been in exceptional form throughout the match. Mustafizur Rahman’s sharp awareness and quick execution complemented the effort, making it a textbook example of teamwork in the field.

This dismissal not only shifted momentum in favor of Bangladesh but also demonstrated the importance of alertness and precision in T20 cricket. This spectacular piece of fielding left the crowd in awe and served as a reminder of how critical fielding can be in tight contests, especially in high-pressure Super 4 encounters.

Abhishek Sharma’s wicket was a turning point, providing Bangladesh with the boost they needed to assert control over the game.

### Why Bangladesh Skipper Litton Das Is Not Playing Against India During IND Vs BAN Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 Clash? Reason Revealed

In a surprising development ahead of the crucial Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash between India and Bangladesh in Dubai, Bangladesh captain Litton Das was ruled out of the match due to injury. In his absence, wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali stepped in to lead the side.

At the toss, Jaker Ali revealed that Litton had sustained an injury during a training session leading up to the game. While the specifics of the injury were not disclosed, Jaker remained optimistic, stating that they hope to have Litton back in action soon for the remainder of the tournament.

His absence is a significant blow to Bangladesh, especially considering his experience and leadership in high-pressure matches.

Despite the setback, Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bowl first, opting to make use of any early assistance from the pitch under the lights at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The decision is in line with the trend observed throughout the tournament, where chasing has often been the preferred strategy due to dew and slightly improved batting conditions in the second innings.

With a spot in the Asia Cup final on the line, this match carries high stakes for both teams. For Bangladesh, the leadership of Jaker Ali and the performance of the playing XI will now be under sharper focus as they look to overcome the absence of their regular skipper and take a step closer to the title.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/abhishek-sharma-gets-run-out-for-75-as-bangladesh-pulls-off-stunning-fielding-masterclass-during-ind-vs-ban-asia-cup-2025-super-4-clash-video

India vs Bangladesh LIVE Score, Asia Cup 2025: Abhishek unleashes carnage on Bangla Tigers in Dubai

**India vs Bangladesh Live Score & Updates: Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 Match**

Bangladesh have won the toss and elected to bowl first against India in their second Super 4 match of the Asia Cup 2025 on Wednesday, 24 September. The match is taking place in Dubai. A win here for either side will confirm their place in the final.

Litton Das misses out on the match due to an injury he suffered during practice. Jaker Ali will be captaining Bangladesh in his place. Bangladesh have made four changes to their playing XI, while India are going in with the same lineup.

### Match Details & Live Updates

Unbeaten and led by Suryakumar Yadav, Team India take on Bangladesh in their second Super Four clash in Dubai. The much-anticipated match is scheduled for 8:00 PM IST at Dubai International Cricket Stadium (DICS).

Both teams come into this contest on the back of convincing victories, with India remaining unbeaten in the tournament so far. Bangladesh will aim to hand India their first defeat in Asia Cup 2025, while India look to virtually seal their place in the final with a win against the Tigers.

### Head-to-Head Record: India vs Bangladesh

India dominate the head-to-head T20I record against Bangladesh with 16 wins out of 17 encounters. The last time these two teams met in a T20I was nearly a year ago, where India scored their highest-ever T20 total of 297 runs and won by a massive 133 runs.

In that match, Sanju Samson smashed a blistering 111 runs, supported by a quickfire 75 from captain Suryakumar Yadav and a sensational 47 from Hardik Pandya. The match highlighted the considerable gap between the two sides in the T20 format.

### How to Watch India vs Bangladesh Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 Match?

The Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 game between India and Bangladesh will be live broadcast on the Sony Sports Network in India. Fans can also catch the live streaming of the match on the SonyLiv app and website.

### Squads

**India:**
Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (wk), Harshit Rana, Rinku Singh.

**Bangladesh:**
Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das (c/wk) [injured], Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali (captain), Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Nurul Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Rishad Hossain, Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

Stay tuned here for all the latest live updates, scores, and commentary from the India vs Bangladesh Super 4 match in Asia Cup 2025!
https://www.firstpost.com/firstcricket/india-vs-bangladesh-live-cricket-score-asia-cup-2025-match-ind-vs-ban-scorecard-dubai-liveblog-13936525.html

Shaheen Afridi attains this feat in T20Is

By Parth Dhall | Sep 23, 2025 | 08:15 pm

Pakistan seamer Shaheen Afridi has added another feather to his cap. The star left-arm pacer is now Pakistan’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20I cricket.

Shaheen reached this remarkable milestone during the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup Super Four encounter against Sri Lanka at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. With his second wicket in the match, the fast bowler surpassed spinner Shadab Khan in terms of T20I wickets for Pakistan.

This achievement further cements Shaheen Afridi’s status as one of Pakistan’s premier fast bowlers in the shortest format of the game. Fans and cricket experts alike will be eager to see how he continues to perform in the tournament and beyond.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/shaheen-afridi-becomes-pakistan-s-second-highest-wicket-taker-in-t20is/story

Asia cup, India vs Bangladesh: Dissecting key player battles

**Asia Cup 2025: India vs Bangladesh – Dissecting Key Player Battles**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Sep 23, 2025, 02:06 PM IST*

India is all set to face Bangladesh in a crucial Super Four clash of the Asia Cup 2025. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, at the Dubai International Stadium, with the action starting at 8 PM IST.

Coming off a thrilling victory over Pakistan in their previous Super Four encounter, India remains unbeaten and looks to continue their winning streak against Bangladesh. Here, we break down the key player battles that could shape the outcome of this exciting fixture.

### 1. Abhishek Sharma vs Taskin Ahmed
Indian opener Abhishek Sharma has been a formidable force during the tournament’s powerplay. An impressive 132 of his 173 runs so far have come in the first six overs, striking at a remarkable rate of 216.39, according to ESPNcricinfo.

Taskin Ahmed, known for his knack for picking wickets early, will bear the responsibility of breaking Sharma’s aggressive start. The Bangladeshi pacer has taken 38 powerplay wickets in T20Is at an economy rate of 6.79, making this a compelling contest.

### 2. Litton Das vs Jasprit Bumrah
Bangladesh skipper Litton Das will be expected to lead the batting charge for his side. However, India’s spearhead Jasprit Bumrah could pose a significant challenge with his pace and precision.

Bumrah will be eager to bounce back after a tough outing against Pakistan, where he went wicketless and conceded 45 runs in four overs. Interestingly, Bumrah has not dismissed Litton Das even once in six international innings, adding an intriguing edge to this battle.

### 3. Towhid Hridoy vs Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav has arguably been the standout bowler of the tournament so far, claiming nine wickets at an economy rate of 6.00. His effectiveness in the middle overs has often triggered batting collapses.

Towhid Hridoy, fresh off a match-winning 58 against Sri Lanka, will need to find a way to counter Kuldeep’s left-arm spin threat. It’s worth noting that Hridoy has been dismissed by left-arm spinners eight times in 21 T20I innings, highlighting a potential vulnerability.

### 4. Suryakumar Yadav vs Mustafizur Rahman
Another key duel to watch is between India’s dynamic batter Suryakumar Yadav and Bangladesh’s crafty left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman.

Suryakumar, who was dismissed for a duck in India’s last match against Pakistan, will be keen to make amends with a strong performance. Mustafizur’s variations and accuracy have troubled many batsmen, and notably, he has dismissed Suryakumar twice in four T20I encounters, making their face-off particularly enticing.

With these exciting individual battles set to unfold, the India vs Bangladesh Super Four clash promises to be a thrilling contest that could significantly impact the path to the Asia Cup final. Fans can look forward to high-quality cricket under the lights at Dubai International Stadium.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/asia-cup-india-vs-bangladesh-key-player-battles/story

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