Ahmed Shehzad lauds Saim, Abrar after Pakistan’s series-levelling win
Pakistan’s Test opener Ahmed Shehzad commended young opener Saim Ayub and debutant spinner Abrar Ahmed for their standout performances in Pakistan’s dominant 10-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second ODI at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Shehzad congratulated Saim on his maiden ODI century and highlighted the team’s aggressive approach as a game-changer.
“Well done to Saim Ayub for his first ODI hundred. This was the kind of intent Pakistan should have shown in the previous game. They didn’t let Zimbabwe cross 200, and that’s how we should play every match,” Shehzad wrote.
Saim was the star of the chase, scoring an explosive 113 not out from just 62 balls, including 20 boundaries and three sixes. His opening partner, Abdullah Shafique, supported with an unbeaten 32 as Pakistan chased down the target of 146 with ease.
Shehzad also praised Abrar Ahmed’s record-equalling debut performance, where the spinner claimed four wickets. He further urged the team management to provide more opportunities for rising left-arm spinner Faisal Akram.
“Abrar had a fantastic debut. Faisal Akram is also showing great potential and needs to be given his full quota of overs so he can develop further. Congrats to Pakistan on a solid win,” he added.
The match saw Zimbabwe collapse for just 145 runs in 32.2 overs after opting to bat first. Abrar’s debut spell and disciplined bowling from the rest of Pakistan’s attack ensured a low target.
The victory not only leveled the three-match series 1-1 but also showcased Pakistan’s dominance with both bat and ball. The series decider will be played on Thursday at the same venue.
