As Pakistan faces a daunting 2-0 deficit in the ongoing Test series against Australia, former captain Salman Butt has suggested a crucial change in the batting lineup for the upcoming third and final Test. Butt believes that 21-year-old opening batter Saim Ayub should replace the struggling Imam-ul-Haq, who failed to make a significant impact in the recent Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Australia sealed a 79-run victory in the second Test, securing an unassailable lead in the series. The Men in Green faced challenges in chasing down a 317-run target in the fourth inning, with Imam-ul-Haq’s lackluster performances drawing criticism. Butt, in his latest YouTube video, emphasized that Imam lacks attacking shots in his repertoire and suggested Ayub as a suitable replacement.
“From what I have seen, Imam-ul-Haq does not have any strokes. There are no run-scoring shots at all. The only shot he plays is the flick. He won’t go for the ball, considering that he struggled with short balls even in India,” remarked Butt.
Imam-ul-Haq recorded scores of 10 and 12 in the Boxing Day Test, prompting concerns about his form and suitability for the crucial opening role. Salman Butt sees an opportunity for Saim Ayub to step in and make a difference in the final Test.
Despite the defeat, skipper Shan Masood showcased his batting prowess, scoring 60 runs off 71 balls in the run chase. However, Butt stressed the importance of converting such performances into big scores, urging Masood to capitalize on his form and score centuries.
“With the command and control he has shown with the bat, I want to see him score a big hundred. He could have hit a century this time as he looked very comfortable at the crease. When you are playing really well, and then the opposition captain comes to bowl, who is equally good, you need to change your momentum. He is mature enough to know these things,” commented Butt.
As Pakistan looks ahead to the final Test, the decision to bring in Saim Ayub for Imam-ul-Haq could be a strategic move to infuse fresh energy into the batting lineup and address the team’s challenges. With the series already decided, the final Test presents an opportunity for Pakistan to regroup and finish on a positive note, potentially giving young talents like Saim Ayub a chance to showcase their skills on the international stage.
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