Pakistan Release Saim Ayub From ODI Tri-Series 2026 Squad, Sahibzada Farhan Named As Replacement
Pakistan has made a significant squad change for the ongoing 2026–27 ODI Tri-Series, releasing struggling opener Saim Ayub at his own request to work on his batting form and regain confidence. Sahibzada Farhan, who recently set a world record for most runs in a three-match T20I series, steps in as his replacement.
The Pakistan cricket team has made a key adjustment to its squad for the ongoing 2026–27 Pakistan ODI Tri-Series, confirming the release of struggling opener Saim Ayub and the immediate inclusion of the in-form Sahibzada Farhan. The decision, announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday, October 26, follows Ayub's personal request to head coach Mike Hesson to return to domestic cricket and address his batting form. Shadab Khan's Unbeaten Century Helps Pakistan Complete Record-Breaking Chase Against England in ODI Tri-Series 2026.
"After a conversation with the head coach, Saim requested a desire to return to domestic cricket to work on his batting form and regain confidence," the PCB stated in a press release. "Respecting Saim's decision and appreciating his honest assessment of his current form, the team management and national selection committee have mutually agreed to accept this request."
Ayub's Struggles and Farhan's Resurgence
Saim Ayub's performance in the tri-series has been a cause for concern. The left-handed batter managed a mere 21 runs across three innings, with scores of seven against Sri Lanka and eight and six in two matches against England. His recent international outings have also seen him struggle, including a solitary eight runs in a T20I against Sri Lanka and a pair of ducks in a Test against England.
Conversely, Sahibzada Farhan joins the squad amidst a purple patch in his career. The right-handed opener recently captained Pakistan's T20I side and set a new world record for the most runs in a three-match bilateral series against Sri Lanka, amassing an impressive 238 runs. While his ODI record currently stands at 101 runs in six innings at an average of 16.83, his List A form is strong, with 3,021 runs in 77 matches at an average of 40.28, including eight centuries.
Tri-Series Nears Climax
The 2026–27 Pakistan ODI Tri-Series, featuring Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka, commenced on October 18. Pakistan has been dominant, winning all three of its matches thus far, dramatically securing a spot in the final following a thrilling one-wicket victory over England on Sunday, October 25, in Lahore.
Tri-Series Schedule & Results (All times Pakistan Standard Time - PKT, UTC+5)
| Date | Match | Venue | Result/Stage | Start Time (PKT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 18 | Pakistan vs Sri Lanka | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium | Pakistan Won | 2:00 PM |
| October 20 | Pakistan vs England | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium | Pakistan Won | 2:00 PM |
| October 22 | England vs Sri Lanka | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium | Sri Lanka Won | 2:00 PM |
| October 25 | Pakistan vs England | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Pakistan Won | 2:00 PM |
| October 27 | Pakistan vs Sri Lanka | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | League Match 5 | 2:00 PM |
| October 29 | England vs Sri Lanka | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | League Match 6 | 2:00 PM |
| October 31 | Final (TBD vs TBD) | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | Final | 2:00 PM |
Note: Match start times confirmed at 2:00 PM local time (PKT) for all fixtures.
Pakistan is set to play its fifth league match against Sri Lanka at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Tuesday, October 27, at 2:00 PM PKT. This fixture will provide Sahibzada Farhan with an immediate opportunity to impress the team management and cement his place ahead of the tournament final, scheduled for October 31. The broadcasting details for the series have not yet been officially announced for all regions. PCB Demands INR 24 Lakh NOC Fee Per Pakistani Player for Nepal Premier League 2026: Report.
The tactical squad change underscores Pakistan's commitment to optimal performance as they aim to clinch the tri-series trophy on home soil. Farhan's inclusion brings a renewed batting impetus, while Ayub's decision to hone his skills domestically highlights a mature approach to individual development.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 26, 2026 03:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).