Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out Of Pakistan vs Australia ODIs

Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman [Source: AFP]In a major setback for Pakistan, opening batters Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub have been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia.The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the announcement on Wednesday and confirmed that both players are currently recovering from injuries. Therefore, they will not be available for selection for the series, which is set to begin on May 30 during Australia’s tour of Pakistan.Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman Asked To Continue RehabilitationAccording to the PCB, both Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman have been advised to continue their rehabilitation programmes under the supervision of the board’s medical panel. "The PCB wishes both players a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing them return to competitive cricket at the earliest opportunity," the statement said.Notably, PCB is expected to share further updates regarding the squad and the fitness status of players in the coming days.Fakhar Zaman’s Absence A Massive Blow For PakistanNotably, the exact nature of Fakhar Zaman’s injury has not been revealed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, his absence is expected to be a major setback for the Pakistan side ahead of the ODI series against Australia.The left-handed batter was in sensational form during the recently concluded PSL 2026. He scored 401 runs in just eight innings and impressed everyone with his aggressive batting. In addition, Fakhar Zaman also performed well in the T20 World Cup 2026, where he scored 109 runs in two innings.On the other hand, Saim Ayub was also last seen in action during PSL 2026. The young opener scored 258 runs in 13 innings. However, compared to Fakhar Zaman's absence, Saim Ayub missing the series may not affect the side as much.It is also important to note that former Pakistan captain Babar Azam is also likely to return to Pakistan’s ODI squad for the Australia series after reportedly being considered during the final selection discussions.Also Read: Pakistan Bank On Mohammad Rizwan For Inzamam-ul-Haq-Style Miracle Vs BangladeshAustralia Team To Arrive On May 23Meanwhile, the Australian squad is expected to arrive in Islamabad on May 23. On the other hand, Pakistan’s players will begin their training camp in Rawalpindi from May 22. The first ODI match will be played in Rawalpindi on May 30, while the remaining two matches are scheduled to take place in Lahore on June 2 and June 4.Notably, the upcoming bilateral ODI series will mark Australia’s first 50-over tour of Pakistan since March and April 2022.Earlier this year, Australia also toured Pakistan for a three-match T20I series during January and February. However, Pakistan dominated the series and secured a convincing 3-0 clean sweep in Lahore.Apart from that, the Australia also played matches in Pakistan during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. One of their notable performances came against England, where Australia registered a five-wicket win at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 22.Also Read: Matheesha Pathirana Injury Update: Will Pacer Play KKR’s Next Match Against Mumbai Indians?