Saim Ayub roared back to form with a brilliant knock (Twitter)
Peshawar Zalmi opener, Saim Ayub made a sensational return to form in PSL 2024 clash against Lahore Qalandars on Sunday. Ayub, known for his aggressive left-handed batting, stole the show with a breathtaking half-century and contributed critically to the team's robust performance.
Saim Ayub electrified the stadium with 102-metre six
The match, already buzzing with anticipation, reached its peak in the 13th over when Ayub faced Jahandad Khan, a bowler who had been keeping the batsmen in check. With a delivery pitched just outside off in the slot, Saim Ayub saw an opportunity and capitalized on it brilliantly.
He cleared his front leg, allowing him to execute a powerful swipe that sent the ball soaring into the mid-wicket stands for a colossal 102-metre six, reminding fans of former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh. This moment of sheer brilliance not only sent the crowd into a frenzy but also highlighted Ayub's ability to turn the game around with singular shots of magnificence.
Before this match-turning innings, Ayub's form had been a topic of concern for Peshawar Zalmi, following modest scores of 7 and 0 in his preceding outings. However, his explosive performance against Lahore Qalandars emphatically silenced any doubts about his capabilities.
Ayub's innings was a critical element of Peshawar Zalmi's strategy, particularly in response to Lahore Qalandars' captain Shaheen Afridi's decision to field first. Alongside Babar Azam, Ayub launched a formidable assault from the very beginning, leading their team to an impressive 90/0 by the end of 10 overs.
Although Babar Azam eventually fell for 48 runs to Afridi, Ayub continued his aggressive play, pushing the team's total to 165/1 after 16 overs, with Ayub himself nearing a well-deserved century at 82 off 50 balls. Supporting Ayub in the latter stages, Rovman Powell's quickfire 29 off 10 balls further intensified the onslaught, setting the stage for a formidable total.