Lahore: Pakistan have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, with both Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub ruled out due to injuries.

The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed on Wednesday that the two left-handed openers will not be available for selection and have been advised to undergo rehabilitation programmes under the supervision of the board’s medical panel. However, the board did not disclose detailed timelines for their recovery or the exact nature of their injuries.

Injury concerns disrupt Pakistan’s plans

According to sources, Fakhar Zaman is dealing with a recurring knee issue, while Saim Ayub has reportedly aggravated an ankle injury. Fakhar has had a history of knee problems, which have forced him to miss matches in the past as well.

Saim’s injury raises further concern as he had previously suffered a fractured right ankle during a Test match against South Africa in January last year. Although he returned to international cricket after months of recovery, the latest setback could impact his continuity in the national side.

The absence of both players creates a gap at the top of the order, an area Pakistan have been trying to stabilise in the ODI format.

Australia series schedule and importance

The ODI series against Australia is scheduled to begin on May 30 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The remaining two matches will be played in Lahore on June 2 and June 4.

This series holds importance for Pakistan as they continue to build combinations ahead of major international tournaments. Playing at home, the team would have hoped to field a full-strength squad, but injuries have forced a rethink.

Selection challenges and possible replacements

With Fakhar and Saim unavailable, Pakistan’s team management will need to reshuffle their opening combination. Sahibzada Farhan, who was part of the squad for the Bangladesh series, is likely to retain his place.

There is also strong consideration for Babar Azam to move up the order and open the innings, a role he has performed successfully in the past. His experience and consistency could provide stability at the top in the absence of specialist openers.

Pakistan had earlier struggled in their ODI series in Bangladesh, losing 1-2, where both Fakhar and Saim were not part of the squad. Their continued absence could once again test the team’s batting depth.

Form and recent performances

Both Fakhar and Saim last featured in ODIs in November 2025 against Sri Lanka at home. Since then, neither has had a consistent run in the format.

Saim Ayub, in particular, endured a difficult Pakistan Super League season, struggling for runs and failing to cement his place in the ODI setup. Fakhar, on the other hand, remains an experienced campaigner but has faced intermittent fitness concerns.

Their absence not only impacts team balance but also reduces left-handed options in the top order, which can be crucial in countering opposition bowling strategies.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s preparations for the Australia ODI series have taken a hit with the unavailability of two key openers. While the team has backup options, the absence of Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub could affect their batting stability and overall balance.

As the series approaches, Pakistan will need to adapt quickly and make strategic decisions to overcome these setbacks. The performances of replacement players and the potential reshuffling of the batting order will be closely watched as the team aims to deliver a strong showing at home.


(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)