Rising star Saim Ayub lit up the cricketing world on Tuesday with a sensational century, matching legendary all-rounder Shahid Afridi’s fastest ODI century milestone for Pakistan. Ayub’s blistering innings powered Pakistan to a dominant win over Zimbabwe, leveling the three-match series 1-1 ahead of Thursday’s decider.
The 22-year-old opener brought up his maiden ODI century in just 53 balls, smashing 17 boundaries and three towering sixes. This extraordinary feat places him alongside Afridi’s 53-ball ton against Bangladesh in 2010, making it the joint third-fastest ODI hundred by a Pakistani batsman. Afridi still holds the top two spots, with record-setting centuries in 37 balls against Sri Lanka in 1996 and 45 deliveries against India in 2005.
Fastest ODI Centuries by Pakistan Men
| Player | Deliveries | Opponent, Year |
| Shahid Afridi | 37 balls | vs Sri Lanka, 1996 |
| Shahid Afridi | 45 balls | vs India, 2005 |
| Shahid Afridi | 53 balls | vs Bangladesh, 2010 |
| Saim Ayub | 53 balls | vs Zimbabwe, 2024 |
| Sharjeel Khan | 61 balls | vs Ireland, 2016 |
Ayub’s century couldn’t have come at a better time for Pakistan, as they faced the pressure of leveling the series after losing the first game. Chasing Zimbabwe’s modest total of 145, Ayub remained unbeaten on 113, with Abdullah Shafique contributing a composed 32* to seal the victory in under 19 overs.
Pakistan’s bowling unit also played a crucial role, with spinner Abrar Ahmed claiming four wickets to dismantle Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. Abrar lauded Ayub in the post-match presentation, calling him a “game-changer” capable of turning matches into one-sided affairs.
“This innings was special,” Abrar said. “Saim’s talent is extraordinary, and I hope he continues to shine for Pakistan. Performances like this boost our morale and set the tone for bigger tournaments like the ICC Champions Trophy.”
As Pakistan prepares for the series decider on Thursday, Ayub’s performance has instilled confidence in the team, hinting at a bright future for the young left-hander. With such dazzling displays, Ayub looks poised to follow in the footsteps of Afridi and other greats who have left their mark on international cricket.
