Saim Ayub Dethroned! Sameer Minhas Scripts History With Record-Breaking PSL 2026

Sameer Minhas. [Source - AFP]

Pakistan’s young batting sensation Sameer Minhas continues to make headlines in PSL 2026, this time by creating a new record for the most runs in a single season by a player aged 20 or below.

At just 19 years old, Sameer Minhas has combined consistency with fearless stroke play, turning himself into one of the standout performers of the tournament. Already regarded as a future star in Pakistan cricket, his performances this season have only strengthened that belief.

Sameer Minhas surpasses Saim Ayub to claim U20 PSL record

Sameer Minhas has officially surpassed Saim Ayub to register the highest runs in a PSL season for players aged 20 or less. Saim Ayub had set the previous record in 2023, scoring 341 runs at the age of 20, which stood as a benchmark for young batters in the league.

Minhas went past that tally during PSL 2026, taking his overall count to 343 runs. What makes this achievement even more impressive is the fact that he is still only 19, highlighting how quickly Minhas has adapted to the demands of franchise cricket.

This milestone is not built on a single big innings, but on consistent contributions throughout the season. Match after match, Minhas has delivered solid starts and impactful knocks, making him a reliable presence at the top of the order.

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Sameer Minhas shines in Qualifier with crucial knock under pressure

The record-breaking moment came in a high-stakes Qualifier match between Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi in PSL 2026. Chasing a daunting target of 222, the pressure was firmly on Islamabad United to deliver a strong start.

Opening the innings, Sameer Minhas showed no signs of nerves and took on the bowlers right from the beginning. He played a quick and impactful knock of 44 runs off just 23 balls, attacking in the powerplay and keeping the required run rate in control.

It was during this innings that he crossed Saim Ayub’s record. However, once Sameer Minhas was dismissed, Islamabad United lost momentum in the chase and eventually fell short, as Peshawar Zalmi, on the back of a Babar Azam century, sealed the win to book their place in the PSL 2026 final.

Record-breaking season underlines Sameer Minhas’ rise as future star

Sameer Minhas has enjoyed a remarkable PSL 2026 campaign, scoring 343 runs at an average of 42.87 with a striking rate of 155.90. These impressive numbers reflect his consistency and aggressive batting approach, making him one of the most impactful young players in Pakistan.

At just 19, Sameer Minhas has also shown maturity beyond his years with the way he has handled different match situations. From building innings to accelerating when needed, he has displayed strong awareness and composure against quality bowling attacks throughout the season.

Before his PSL rise, Minhas had already dominated U19 cricket, helping Pakistan achieve great success, including winning the U19 Asia Cup and performing strongly in the recent U19 World Cup. Earlier this season, he also became the second youngest half-centurion in PSL history, highlighting his immense potential.

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