Pakistan release batter Saim Ayub from the ODI tri-series squad against England and Sri Lanka to focus on regaining batting form. Multiple outlets report that Ayub requests time away from the national setup to work on his technique and confidence, and that Sahibzada Farhan replaces him for the remaining matches.
ESPN Cricinfo, NDTV, Dawn, and Express Tribune all tie the decision to Ayub’s own request and his plan to return to domestic cricket. Dawn adds that the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision follows discussions involving head coach Mike Hesson and agreement between team management and the national selection committee, and notes that the PCB does not specify the length of his domestic spell.
Times of India, while also describing Ayub’s release and Farhan’s replacement, additionally frames the change in the context of Pakistan’s tri-series campaign and match performance. It states Pakistan qualify for the final and highlights Shadab Khan’s unbeaten 113 in a one-wicket win over England.
