Key points
- Compares youngster to Dewald Brevis
- Inconsistent group-stage performances with bat
COLOMBO: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has identified Pakistan opener Saim Ayub as a key figure ahead of the Super Eights stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which begins with Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Speaking recently, Ponting likened the 23-year-old to South Africa’s Dewald Brevis, highlighting his fearless approach and raw talent.
“He’s [Saim Ayub], I think, that youthful talent that is a bit like a Dewald Brevis. If he can put a couple of good performances on the board, then Pakistan becomes hard to beat,” Ponting said.
Ayub, however, has endured an inconsistent run during the group stage. He scored 24 and picked up 2/7 against the Netherlands, followed by 19 without a wicket versus the USA. In the marquee clash against India, he managed just six runs but impressed with figures of 3/25. He then made 14 without taking a wicket in the final group fixture against Namibia.
All-round capabilities
Despite mixed returns, Ayub has demonstrated his all-round capabilities in T20 internationals this year. Across his last nine matches, he has accumulated 142 runs and claimed eight wickets, underlining his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Pakistan progressed to the Super Eights after finishing second in Group A, securing three wins from four matches, with their only defeat coming against India.
In the next phase, they join Sri Lanka, New Zealand and England in Group 2. Pakistan will also face England on February 24 and Sri Lanka on February 28 in Colombo.
