Pakistan’s opener Saim Ayub delivered a scintillating performance with a match-winning century, scoring 101 runs off 94 balls, as Pakistan secured a historic clean sweep against South Africa in the third One-Day International (ODI) at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday.
Rain-Adjusted Match Sees Pakistan Dominate
The match, reduced to 47 overs per side due to rain, ended with South Africa falling 36 runs short despite a spirited chase. The hosts were bowled out for 271 in 42 overs in pursuit of Pakistan’s commanding target.
Ayub Joins Elite List of ODI Centurions
Ayub’s second century of the series placed him among an elite group of overseas batters, including Virat Kohli, David Warner, Fakhar Zaman, and Joe Root, who have scored multiple ODI centuries in South Africa. Only Kevin Pietersen and Kohli have achieved three centuries on South African soil.
Record-Breaking Whitewash
Pakistan’s victory marked a historic milestone as they became the first team to whitewash South Africa in an ODI series on their home turf.
Crucial Partnerships Anchor Pakistan’s Innings
After the early dismissal of Abdullah Shafique, Ayub anchored the innings with crucial partnerships. He added 114 runs for the second wicket with Babar Azam (52) and 93 runs for the third wicket with Mohammad Rizwan (53). His knock featured 13 boundaries and two sixes, showcasing aggressive and elegant strokeplay.
Ayub’s brilliant innings ended when he was caught behind off debutant Corbin Bosch, but his contributions set up Pakistan’s formidable total.
South Africa’s Fightback Falls Short
In response, South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen led the fightback with a blazing 81 off 43 balls, while debutant Corbin Bosch contributed an unbeaten 40. However, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Sufiyan Muqeem (4/52), ensured the hosts were restricted to 271.
Series Recap
The clean sweep concluded a dominant series for Pakistan, who previously secured an 81-run victory in the second ODI and a thrilling three-wicket win in the opening match. This historic achievement underlines Pakistan’s growing prowess in international cricket.
