Gillespie sees glimpses of Saeed Anwar in rising star Saim Ayoub

Former Australian fast bowler and ex-Pakistan head coach Jason Gillespie has heaped glowing praise on young Pakistani batting sensation Saim Ayub, drawing comparisons with the legendary Saeed Anwar.

The comments came during a recent fan interaction on Instagram, where Gillespie lauded the left-handed opener’s elegant strokeplay and composure.

“Saeed Anwar was one of the greatest players. I see some of him in Saim Ayub,” Gillespie wrote, instantly sparking buzz among cricket fans.

Saeed Anwar, one of Pakistan’s most iconic top-order batsmen, amassed over 13,000 international runs and was known for his graceful yet commanding presence at the crease.

For years, he set the benchmark for left-handed batting in Pakistan, becoming a source of inspiration for many upcoming cricketers.

On the other hand, the rise of Saim Ayub over the last 18 months has been anything but ordinary. He has displayed his outstanding talent in the international circuit, particularly in the white-ball formats, combining calmness with flair, and classic shots with modern intent.

However, a freak ankle injury during the second Test against South Africa in 2025, while trying to stop a boundary, had him sidelined for months.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel
He slipped, twisted his ankle, and ended up with a serious fracture. His absence during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was clearly felt, both in terms of team balance and spark at the top.

Ayub went through rehab and medical treatment in England, eventually passing the PCB’s fitness protocols before making his way back.

And he didn’t waste time making a statement, smashing a classy fifty for Peshawar Zalmi against Quetta Gladiators in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.