WATCH: Saim Ayub powers Guyana to maiden CPL title
The left-hander was the second highest run-scorer in the event
Pakistan’s talented opener Saim Ayub continued his brilliant form as he smashed a half-century to lead Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) to their maiden Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title on Sunday, beating Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) in Guyana.
The young batter hit a maximum to cap off the dominant victory — of nine wickets — before the Warriors sprinted onto the field along with skipper Imran Tahir to celebrate wildly.
After being asked to bat first, Trinbago were all out for 94 runs in 18.1 overs. Warriors chased down the target in 14 overs.
Ayub was able to smash unbeaten 52 runs in 41 balls with the help of two fours and five sixes, while Shai Hope helped him achieve the target as he scored 32 runs in the same number of balls.
Ayub finished as the second highest scorer in the event 478 runs in 13 innings at a strike-rate of 142.26.
In awe of Ayub, Hope said: "I thought we both saw off each other well. He is a quality player, just love to see him bat. He is very easy on the eye and I hope he can continue going from strength to strength and probably get into that Pakistan team."
Tahir, who was emotional after the victory, thanked his critics for motivating his side to win their maiden title in the 11th edition of the tournament.
"Look, it's beautiful. It's been a great experience, been playing for this beautiful franchise and for these beautiful people who always come and support us," he said.
It must be noted that Ayub has played eight T20I matches over the course of his brief career for Pakistan after making his debut in March this year against Afghanistan. He has scored 123 runs in seven innings with a highest score of 49, so far.
