Saim Ayub credits PSL, coaches for bowling strides
Pakistan's Saim Ayub is currently the world's number one T20 all-rounder. During an exclusive chat with Cricbuzz following a net session with Sylhet Titans in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League, Ayub spared some time to share his journey from an opener to an all-rounder.
Two years ago, we discussed your journey as an opener. Now, we interview an all-rounder. How has this transformation been?
The journey has been incredible, and it feels like those two or three years passed in just two days. It's amazing how time flies! It feels like just yesterday we did an interview with you, and now we're doing it again. Life is a blur, but I'm enjoying the ride.
How did you transition from an opener to an all-rounder? You used to bowl a little in club cricket, but the PSL and Peshawar helped you a lot. When you joined the Pakistan team, they believed in you and worked on your technical and tactical skills. You didn't expect such impressive bowling figures, but the coaches' hard work and your dedication paid off.
You've mastered power play bowling. What's your mindset while bowling in that phase?
In the Pakistan team, we have a clear plan and area to bowl. We practice our technical skills and mindset in net sessions, which helps us read the batsman during matches. We don't need to be scared; we put pressure on the batsman. It's all about confidence and execution.
You use both batting and bowling skills interchangeably. How did you develop your leg-spin bowling? Off-spin is common, but how did you specialize in leg-spin?
During the COVID-19 period in 2020, I experimented with leg-spin. I noticed a new trend in 2019-20, especially with finger spin, which Mujeeb introduced. I decided to give it a try and started enjoying it in net sessions. Muscle memory developed over time, making it easier to bowl leg-spin.
Does this muscle memory help against right-handers?
Absolutely! Muscle memory is crucial, but practice is essential. You need to work on your bowling action and the areas you want to bowl in. In matches, you try to be fearless and execute your skills.
You're preparing for a series against Sri Lanka and the World Cup. How is the BPL helping you prepare?
The BPL is an excellent preparation ground. Conditions vary in every match, and we play on different pitches. Sometimes, scores are high, and sometimes they're low. Playing in such conditions helps us adapt to pressure and different scenarios, making it a valuable learning experience.
Is there a specific shot that makes you feel like you've got this day covered if executed perfectly?
I don't focus on a single shot. I try to play all shots, whether it's off-stump or leg-stump. I keep all options open. No specific shot makes me feel relaxed. It's about maintaining focus and avoiding mistakes.
Does playing one good shot make you feel like today is your day?
Not at all! I don't think like that. If I play one good shot and make a mistake on the next ball, I'll get out. It's about consistency and avoiding mistakes. If I stay focused, I can make the day mine.
Mike Hesson wants you to take an aggressive approach. How do you feel about adapting to that?
Our team's mindset is to win every match and dominate. We take each match seriously, focusing on winning and not giving the opposition a chance to comeback. This approach helps us stay motivated and perform at our best.
How are you preparing for the T20 World Cup?
We haven't started thinking about the World Cup yet, but we'll focus on it when we get there. For now, we're enjoying the BPL and preparing for the Sri Lanka series.
Can you name a coach who has significantly helped you with your bowling?
Our current bowling coach in the Pakistan team has been instrumental in my development. He's a great coach, and I've learned a lot from his guidance.
