Pakistan’s rising T20 star Saim Ayub has revealed his dream T20I World XI, featuring only one fellow Pakistani cricketer — Fakhar Zaman. The selection, made during his appearance on the Off Topic Zalmi Podcast, has sparked discussions among fans on social media.
Saim was asked to form a playing XI of currently active international T20 players, with the condition that no more than two players could be selected from any one country.
Despite the flexibility, the 21-year-old chose just a single player from Pakistan, omitting regulars such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi.
So, who made the cut?
Saim Ayub picked Fakhar Zaman and Travis Head (Australia) as his opening pair. Describing the duo as “explosive,” Saim highlighted their ability to provide aggressive starts.
Head’s recent performances for Australia and his T20 franchise success earned him a place alongside Fakhar, who remains one of Pakistan’s most dynamic openers.
England’s Jos Buttler was Saim’s choice at No. 3, offering top-order stability and proven T20 credentials. The middle order featured Nicholas Pooran (West Indies) and Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) — two players known for their exceptional finishing abilities and power-hitting skills across global T20 leagues.
In the all-rounder slots, Saim selected Ben Stokes (England) and Hardik Pandya (India). While Stokes is more renowned for his Test and ODI achievements, his leadership qualities and experience in pressure situations likely influenced Saim’s decision. Hardik Pandya’s aggressive batting and reliable seam bowling continue to make him a top choice in T20 cricket.
For the spin department, Saim Ayub chose Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) and Mitchell Santner (New Zealand). Rashid’s reputation as one of the most effective T20 bowlers globally, combined with Santner’s left-arm variation and control, provides his XI with a versatile spin duo.
To round off his team, Saim went with Mitchell Starc (Australia) and Jasprit Bumrah (India) — two of the most feared fast bowlers in world cricket. Both bring vast experience, pace, and proven ability to deliver in crunch situations, particularly at the death.
T20I World XI of Saim Ayub
- Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)
- Travis Head (Australia)
- Jos Buttler (England)
- Nicholas Pooran (West Indies)
- Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa)
- Ben Stokes (England)
- Hardik Pandya (India)
- Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
- Mitchell Santner (New Zealand)
- Jasprit Bumrah (India)
- Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.