By Sadiq Mohammad
Late at night when I was asked to share my thoughts on Pakistan’s selection for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh, I found myself reflecting deeply on the direction our cricket is taking.
As someone who has opened the innings for Pakistan in Test cricket and watched generations of players come and go, I feel a strong responsibility to speak honestly about the decisions being made.
First of all, I must say that the team selected for the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh does not appear to be the most balanced combination. International cricket is extremely competitive today, and when you are preparing to face a well-organized and experienced side like Bangladesh, your selection strategy must be very clear and calculated.
In my opinion, selecting a 15-member squad that includes as many as six new faces is not the right approach. Introducing young talent is important, but it must be done gradually and sensibly. Ideally, one or two new players should be brought into the squad at a time. That allows them to learn from senior players, adapt to international pressure and grow into the role.
Selectors should focus on grooming two promising youngsters and carrying them with the national team for at least two years. This method has worked successfully for many top cricketing nations. When young players spend time around experienced cricketers, they learn the discipline, temperament, and match awareness that international cricket demands.
What concerns me even more is the timing of these changes. Pakistan is trying to regain its status and consistency in international cricket. If we lose this ODI series against Bangladesh, it could push us considerably behind in the ICC rankings. Rankings may not tell the whole story, but they do reflect the stability and performance level of a team over time.
Another decision that surprised me was the absence of Babar Azam from this tour. Babar is one of Pakistan’s most accomplished and technically sound batsmen in modern cricket. His experience and class could have played a crucial role, especially against a disciplined bowling attack like Bangladesh’s.
Now I would like to speak specifically about Saim Ayub. In my view, he has been given a lot of opportunities as an opening batsman. Unfortunately, his performances have not matched the expectations. However, I do not place all the blame on the player himself.
From what I have observed, some of the coaching advice he received—particularly from the foreign head coach—did not help his natural game. Instead of refining his technique and temperament for the demands of international cricket, he seems to have been pushed toward an approach that has made him inconsistent.
At times it also appeared that Saim Ayub became somewhat comfortable in the side, possibly because he felt he had the backing of the coaching staff and some teammates. When a young player begins to believe he cannot be dropped regardless of performance, it can affect his focus and discipline.
This is why I firmly believe proper mentorship is essential.
Note: Sadiq Mohammad is a former Pakistan Test opener
