Saim Ayub equals embarrassing record, registers yet another duck in Asia Cup 2025

Pakistan registered a narrow 11-run victory against Bangladesh in the Super Four clash of the Asia Cup 2025, but the game was also marked by a disappointing record for young opener Saim Ayub, who fell for yet another duck.

Coming in after Sahibzada Farhan’s early dismissal, Saim lasted just three balls before departing without scoring. This was his sixth duck in 2025 T20Is, equalling the record for the most T20I ducks in a calendar year among players from full-member nations. He now shares this unwanted milestone with Zimbabwe pacer Richard Ngarava.

Pakistan’s batting struggles

Pakistan batted first and could only manage 135 runs in their 20 overs. Mohammad Haris played a gritty knock of 31 runs, while Mohammad Nawaz contributed 25 runs. Despite the top-order collapse, small cameos from the middle order helped Pakistan put up a modest total on the board.

Bangladesh’s chase falls short

In reply, Bangladesh looked steady at times but kept losing wickets at crucial junctures. Pakistan’s bowling unit rose to the occasion, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf delivering fiery spells that restricted Bangladesh to 124 runs, handing Pakistan an 11-run victory and a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 Final.

Skipper Salman Ali Agha praises the team

After the win, skipper Salman Ali Agha lauded the collective team effort despite batting woes:

“If you can win these kinds of games, you must be a special team. Everyone chipped in. The way Shaheen bowled and the way Haris bowled up front, it was special. We are finding ways to win. There are areas to improve but we will be better in the final,” Agha said during the post-match presentation.

Saim Ayub’s worrying form

Saim Ayub’s continued struggles with the bat have become a growing concern for Pakistan. Once touted as a rising star and future opener, his repeated dismissals for zero have raised questions about his confidence and technique in the shortest format.

With the Asia Cup final and the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, the Pakistan team management faces a crucial decision—whether to persist with Ayub in the playing XI or give opportunities to other promising youngsters.