Pakistan to drop Saim Ayub in Asia Cup final? Underperforming batter could face the axe ahead of India clash

Divy Dubey

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Pakistan to drop Saim Ayub in Asia Cup final? Underperforming batter could face the axe ahead of India clash image

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For the first time in Asia Cup history, Pakistan will meet India in the tournament final. The match is set for Sunday, September 28, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Both teams arrive with momentum but Pakistan's team management is reportedly weighing changes to their XI after repeated batting struggles from one of their young players.

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While the side has shown balance in both pace and spin, one top-order batter's form has come under the scanner ahead of the decider.

Saim Ayub’s poor form raises Pakistan selection doubts ahead of India clash

Saim Ayub has featured in all six of Pakistan's matches at the Asia Cup 2025 but scored only 23 runs. Of those, 21 came in a single innings against India while he registered four ducks across the tournament.

More: "Abhimanyu Easwaran dropped from India Test squad due to his father's strong statements" - Ex-India star makes shocking claim

Initially tried as an opener, he was shifted to No. 3 during the Super 4s but continued to falter. Such numbers have sparked speculation that Pakistan may leave him out of the XI for the final, according to News18.

Will Hasan Nawaz replace Saim Ayub in Pakistan XI for Asia Cup 2025 Final vs India?

If Pakistan opts to drop Ayub, reports suggest Hasan Nawaz could be drafted in. The right-hander has 449 runs from 22 T20Is at a strike rate of 158.09 - making him a strong option for the middle order.

More: Asia Cup 2025 Super 4: Rules, format, schedule, points and teams explained

However, given Ayub's eight wickets with the ball during the competition, selectors may still be reluctant to exclude him entirely.

Pakistan likely to retain core XI despite Saim Ayub doubts for Asia Cup 2025 Final

Despite talk of changes, the more likely scenario is that Pakistan field an unchanged XI. The side sealed their final spot with an 11-run win over Bangladesh where contributions from Hussain Talat and Mohammad Haris stood out.

Both players could be given greater responsibility with the bat in the final. Fans will also hope skipper Salman Ali Agha delivers a decisive innings on the big stage.

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Divy Dubey

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.