Saim Ayub's journey from under-15 champion to Pakistan’s cricket icon

In a throwback to eight years ago, a young Saim Ayub, now one of Pakistan’s brightest cricketing talents, gave his first-ever interview as part of the Customs Cricket Academy Under-15 cricket team after the Under-15 cricket tournament held in India, which was won by Pakistan.

Hosted by Javeria Saud, the interview captured Saim’s early ambitions and remarkable performances that foreshadowed his journey to representing Pakistan on the international stage.  

The Under-15 tournament was a multi-nation event featuring teams from ten Indian states alongside Bahrain and Pakistan. Held in Chennai, Pakistan emerged victorious, defeating the hosts. Saim Ayub played a pivotal role throughout the tournament, amassing 250 runs in five matches, including a top score of 80. His outstanding performances earned him two Player of the Match awards and the prestigious Best Batter of the Tournament trophy.  

Joining Saim in this stellar lineup was Khwaja Muhammad Nafay, now representing Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The team’s collective talent and determination shone brightly, laying the foundation for their future cricketing careers.  

During the interview, veteran host Javeria Saud highlighted the potential of these young players, and Aijaz Aslam, a Pakistani television actor, made a bold prediction as he told, “Many of these boys will don the green jersey and represent Pakistan in the future.” Fast forward to today, that prediction is coming true as Saim Ayub cements his place among Pakistan’s elite cricketers.  

This nostalgic moment serves as a testament to the relentless hard work, passion, and determination that propelled young Saim and his teammates from local stardom to national and international recognition. It’s a proud reminder of the promising future of Pakistan cricket.