The cricketing world loves its legends, and when someone like Nasser Hussain drops a name into the conversation about the next generation of cricket’s ‘Fab Four,’ ears perk up. Hussain, never one to shy away from calling it as he sees it, believes Pakistan’s young batting sensation, Saim Ayub, has what it takes to join this elite group.
On a recent cricket podcast with Michael Atherton, the former England captain heaped praise on Saim, calling him a dynamic, multi-format player. “He could be a game-changer for Pakistan at the top of the order,” Hussain remarked. High praise indeed, especially when it comes from someone as astute as Hussain.
A New Era of the ‘Fab Four’?
For context, the term ‘Fab Four’ isn’t thrown around lightly. Coined by the late, great Martin Crowe in 2013, it originally referred to Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson—four modern giants who redefined consistency and dominance across all formats of cricket.
Over the years, they’ve set the bar sky-high for anyone looking to carry that mantle forward. So, who else did Hussain and Atherton think could make the cut? Alongside Saim, Hussain picked England’s Harry Brook and India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Read More: From PSL Boycott To Change of Heart: Ihsanullah Reverses Retirement
He also mentioned Travis Head but was quickly vetoed by Atherton, who joked that Head’s age disqualified him from being part of the “new generation.” Atherton, on the other hand, put forward Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis and New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra as strong contenders.
The Rise of Saim Ayub
Saim’s inclusion in such lofty discussions isn’t without merit. At just 22 years old, he’s already shown the cricketing world what he’s made of. Since his debut against Afghanistan in March 2023, the left-handed batter has racked up 44 international caps.
But it’s his ODI record that truly stands out—three centuries and a half-century in just nine matches. One of his standout moments came during Pakistan’s 3-0 ODI series whitewash of South Africa last year.
Read More: Will Saim Ayub Be Ready for the Champions Trophy?
Saim Ayub smashed two centuries in the series, earning him Player of the Series honors and cementing his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure. His aggressive yet calculated batting style has made him a fan favorite and a crucial asset for Pakistan’s top order.
Unfortunately, Saim’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. A fractured right ankle during the Cape Town Test against South Africa has temporarily sidelined him. The injury came at a crucial time, ruling him out of Pakistan’s home Test series against the West Indies and the upcoming tri-nation series featuring New Zealand and South Africa.
To ensure Saim’s timely recovery for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sent him to London for treatment. With the tournament scheduled for February, the PCB is anxiously awaiting updates on his fitness before finalizing their squad.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.