Pakistan achieved a clean sweep of the ODI series against South Africa with a 36-run win in the third match, highlighted by Saim Ayub’s century. The series showcased Pakistan’s consistent performance, securing five consecutive ODI series victories and positioning them positively ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan has successfully completed a 3-0 series sweep against South Africa in their One Day International (ODI) matches, concluding the third match with a 36-run victory under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) Method. Saim Ayub emerged as a standout performer, scoring 101 runs off 94 balls, leading Pakistan to a total of 308 for 9 in a match reduced to 47 overs due to rain. In response, South Africa was all out for 271 runs in 42 overs while chasing the target.
The match, held at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on December 22, 2024, saw Pakistan’s batting start precariously, losing Abdullah Shafique for a duck in the first over. However, a strong partnership by Ayub, who also had a pivotal role in the first ODI with a score of 109, partnered with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, stabilizing the innings. Ayub’s innings included two sixes and thirteen fours before he was dismissed, while Salman Agha contributed with a brisk 48 runs from 33 deliveries.
Kagiso Rabada was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa, taking 3 wickets for 56 runs. On the other hand, Heinrich Klaasen was South Africa’s top scorer with 81 runs from just 43 balls, while Corbin Bosch remained not out at 40. For Pakistan, Sufiyan Muqeem shone with the ball, achieving figures of 4 wickets for 52 runs in 8 overs. This series win follows Pakistan’s victories in the first two ODIs, securing their fifth consecutive bilateral ODI series triumph, which sets a positive tone ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy, to be hosted by Pakistan in February 2025.
The Pakistan cricket team recently undertook a series of ODIs against South Africa, a significant contest given the rivalry between the two nations. Pakistan has shown considerable improvement in their ODI results, reflecting a strategic focus on their One Day squad’s overall performance. This particular series win is essential for Pakistan, not only in terms of confidence but also as preparation for future international tournaments, such as the Champions Trophy. The context of the matches and player performances highlights the stature of Pakistani cricket on the international stage.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s triumphant 3-0 sweep against South Africa highlights their depth in batting and bowling, exemplified by Saim Ayub’s stellar performance as well as the contributions from other players. With the series concluded successfully, Pakistan stands well-positioned for future challenges, particularly the upcoming Champions Trophy. This achievement continues to build on their momentum in the ODI format, reflecting optimism for the team’s future performances in international cricket.
Original Source: apnews.com
