3 Reasons Saim Ayub Was Sent To Open Against South Africa In The Second T20I

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Saim Ayub for Pakistan [Source: @TheRealPCB/x.com]Saim Ayub for Pakistan [Source: @TheRealPCB/x.com]

Pakistan is taking on South Africa in the second T20I of the three-match series at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. While South Africa is aiming for a win and sealing off the series, Pakistan is looking to put on a better show and take the series to the decider.

Although Pakistan lost an early wicket in the game, Babar Azam combined with Saim Ayub to stabilise things for the team. The duo stitched together a partnership of 87 runs and got Pakistan moving towards a formidable total.

While Saim Ayub has already proven himself going past the 50-mark in the match, here are three reasons why this was a perfect decision.

3. Complementing Babar and Rizwan

Saim Ayub is a natural aggressive batter. He can give Pakistan a boost at the start of their innings with his attacking shots. While Babar and Rizwan are more of grafters, Ayub's presence at the top allows Pakistan to start off dynamically. With Rizwan and Babar opening, there are chances that they might give the momentum away to the opposition in trying to settle down at the beginning.

2. Ayub's Boundary Hitting Abilities In The Powerplay

Sami Ayub enjoys batting against the new and hard ball. With the fielding restrictions in play during the first six overs, Ayub enjoys clearing the infield and picking up boundaries. As a result of this attitude, Pakistan will be able to get a launching pad in most of the games with Ayub opening. 

1. Ability Adjust As Per The Demand Of The Game

Saim Ayub has a great ability to adjust his game as per the demands of the game. Rather than going in one gear he can stabilise himself after the powerplay and elongate a good start. The fact that he can pace his innings brilliantly makes him a great option at the top. In the games that he will give the start and return back to the hut Pakistan will have the momentum of his big hitting. In matches where he can elongate his knock past the first six overs, Ayub can leave a match-winning impact with the bat.