In a thrilling second one-day international match against Zimbabwe, newcomer Saim Ayub delivered a stunning performance, scoring his first ODI century in just 53 balls. His unbeaten 113, which included 17 fours and three sixes, helped Pakistan chase down the target of 148 runs in just 18.2 overs. With this win, the series is now tied at 1-1 and fans can look forward to a nail-biting decider match on Thursday.
Saim Ayub: Pakistan's Rising Star Shines in ODI Debut
Emerging Pakistani cricketer Saim Ayub made a remarkable debut in One Day International (ODI) cricket, etching his name in the history books with an unforgettable performance against Zimbabwe.
Thrilling Performance
In the second ODI of the three-match series, Pakistan faced a target of 148 runs. Ayub, playing his first ODI, opened the batting and stormed to a magnificent century in just 53 balls. His explosive innings featured 17 boundaries and three towering sixes.
Ayub's heroics propelled Pakistan to a comfortable eight-wicket victory, leveling the series at 1-1. His unbeaten 113 became the fastest century by a Pakistani batsman in ODI cricket.
Background
Saim Ayub, a 21-year-old left-handed batsman, has been making waves in domestic cricket for the past few seasons. He made his First-Class debut in 2019 and has since amassed over 1,500 runs at an impressive average of 44.60.
Ayub's talent and impressive performances earned him a call-up to the Pakistan national team for the series against Zimbabwe. In his first ODI match, he showcased his ability to adapt to the international stage and deliver under pressure.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. When did Saim Ayub score his first ODI century?
Answer: He scored his first ODI century on October 31, 2022, against Zimbabwe.
2. How many balls did it take Ayub to reach his century?
Answer: He reached his century in just 53 balls, setting a new record for the fastest ODI century by a Pakistani batsman.
3. What was Ayub's final score in the second ODI against Zimbabwe?
Answer: He scored an unbeaten 113 runs, including 17 fours and three sixes.
4. Has Ayub played in any other international matches besides the ODI series against Zimbabwe?
Answer: No, this was Ayub's first and only international series to date.
5. What is the current state of the ODI series between Pakistan and Zimbabwe?
Answer: The series is currently tied at 1-1, with the decider match scheduled for Thursday, November 3, 2022.
Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar and former Australian opener Justin Langer pointed out the risky single taken by Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli's misjudgment, leading to the former's run-out in the fourth Test match in Melbourne. The run-out had a significant impact on India's performance as they collapsed after Jaiswal's exit. With seasoned off-spinner Nathan Lyon expected to come into play on day three, India will need to put their heads down and build a strong partnership to stay in the game against the dominating Australian side.
During Day 2 of the 4th Test between India and Australia, former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad expressed his disappointment with Rohit Sharma's performance as both a captain and a batsman. Prasad also attributed Rohit's struggle in the series to his lack of form and match practice beforehand. Meanwhile, Steve Smith's century and a 112-run stand with captain Pat Cummins helped Australia maintain a strong lead over India on the second day of the Boxing Day Test match.
Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar and Sunil Gavaskar discuss Rishabh Pant's mode of dismissal in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy fourth Test against Australia. Manjrekar points out that the wicketkeeper-batter will be questioned if he continues to get out while attempting unconventional shots. Gavaskar lambasts Pant, labeling his dismissal as 'stupid' and criticizing his shot selection. Despite Pant's early dismissal, India managed to cross the 300-run mark on Day 3 thanks to a seventh-wicket partnership between Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar. Follow Sportskeeda's live updates for the latest news and biddings at the IPL Auction 2025.
India's Nitish Kumar Reddy wowed the world with his extraordinary maiden Test century at the MCG, becoming the third youngest Indian to achieve the feat. After the third day's play, Reddy was welcomed by his emotional family members, including his father who had left his job to support Reddy's cricket journey. The BCCI released a video of the heartwarming reunion, capturing the overwhelming emotions of Reddy's mother, father, and sister. Reddy put up a resilient performance alongside Washington Sundar to rescue India from a precarious position and secure a potential match-saving unbeaten 105.
In a heartwarming gesture, India's Virat Kohli reached out and patted Australia's Steve Smith on the back after the latter scored his 34th Test century during the ongoing Boxing Day Test. This comes just a day after Kohli's heated altercation with Sam Konstas, which resulted in a fine from the International Cricket Council. Kohli's act of sportsmanship serves as an inspiration for all, especially after India suffered a familiar collapse after a crucial run-out on day two.
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice hopes their pursuit for trophies will come to fruition in the new year, but knows they will need some help to catch up to Premier League leaders Liverpool. With a six point gap between the two teams and star winger Bukayo Saka out injured, Rice recognizes the importance of other teammates stepping up in his absence. Despite the challenges, Rice remains optimistic about his own performance and the potential for a successful season for Arsenal.
The New Zealand National Cricket Team emerged victorious in their first T20I match against the Sri Lanka National Cricket Team at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. Despite a strong start by Sri Lanka, New Zealand's strong batting and strategic bowling led them to secure a dominant win, with player Kane Williamson leading the team with a record-breaking performance. Fans eagerly await the next match in the series to see if New Zealand can continue their winning streak.
Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy's spectacular maiden Test century on day three of the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground not only helped rescue his team from a dangerous position, but also restored a sense of fight and character in the Indian dressing room. Reddy's century, scored from a position as low as number eight, also saw him break the 122-year-old record for the highest Test score by a batter playing at number eight or lower at the MCG. The young cricketer's efforts have earned praise and given a much-needed boost to the Indian team.
Australia's Steve Smith believes that the dramatic run-out of Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal late on Day 2 was the turning point in the ongoing Boxing Day Test match. Smith pointed out that the mix-up between Jaiswal and Virat Kohli, resulting in Jaiswal's dismissal, shifted the momentum in Australia's favor. India, who were well-positioned at 153/2, suffered a late collapse and ended the day at 164/5, trailing Australia's first-innings total by 310 runs. Smith also praised Jaiswal's aggressive innings and Kohli's measured knock, while highlighting the importance of breaking their partnership.
Amidst growing concerns and criticism, Indian captain Rohit Sharma is facing a crucial phase in his Test career. With only 152 runs in his last 14 innings and a string of low scores in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, questions are being raised about his future in the longest format. As his team secures a dominant win under a new captain, chief selector Ajit Agarkar's arrival in Melbourne suggests tough decisions could be on the horizon for Rohit Sharma. All eyes will be on him in the upcoming innings, as the cricketing world awaits his response.