In the world of cricket, innovation often takes centre stage, with players constantly pushing the boundaries of conventional shots. One such intriguing phenomenon is the ‘no-look’ shot of Saim Ayub, a stroke that has captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide. But what exactly is this unique shot, and how did it come into existence?
What is the ‘no look’ shot?
Contrary to popular belief, the ‘no-look’ shot does not involve hitting the ball without looking at it. Instead, it challenges the traditional instinct of tracking the ball after it’s been struck.
In Ayub’s case, his version of the ‘no-look’ shot is a subtle yet effective manoeuvre, typically executed with finesse when targeting the leg side. It involves a subtle dab over his right shoulder, sending the ball soaring for a boundary or even a maximum.
Rather than admiring his handiwork, Ayub maintains his focus on the pitch, adding an element of mystery and flair to his batting prowess.
The story behind the ‘no look’ shot of Saim Ayub
In a recent interview with a local news channel, the 21-year-old opening batter shed light on the genesis of his unconventional shot.
Recounting its debut during the National T20 in 2022, Ayub revealed that the ‘no-look’ shot was not a product of meticulous planning but rather a spontaneous act born out of necessity.
“I was struggling to find scoring opportunities, and when I noticed the fine leg fielder positioned up in the circle, I instinctively played the shot,” Ayub explained. “It wasn’t a deliberate decision to avoid looking at the ball; it just happened naturally.”
Despite its allure, Ayub remains pragmatic about the risks associated with the ‘no-look’ shot, opting to deploy it sparingly and only when circumstances demand it.
“I don’t prioritize this since it is a high-risk shot. I try to play the other shots more often and only play the no-look shot when it is absolutely necessary,”
Saim Ayub also emphasized that he prioritizes playing his best and contributing to the team’s success over personal milestones.
“My target is Man of the Match, not fifty or a hundred. I don’t think about numbers as I aim to win the match for my team. It can be any figure, 50, 70 or 100, but I don’t think about that since I’m focused on winning the match,” Ayub emphasized.
While Ayub has showcased glimpses of his talent in domestic and PSL matches, his transition to the international arena has been a work in progress.
With 19 T20I appearances under his belt since his debut against Afghanistan, Ayub acknowledges the need to translate his domestic success into consistent performances at the highest level. He has scored a meagre 270 runs in 17 innings at a strike rate of 131.06.
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