Pakistan has completed a clean sweep of the ODI series against South Africa, winning the third match by 36 runs using the DLS method. Saim Ayub scored a century, and Sufiyan Muqeem excelled with the ball as Pakistan posted a total of 308-9 and restricted South Africa to 271 all out. With this victory, Pakistan has shown strong form ahead of the Champions Trophy it will host in February.
Pakistan has accomplished a remarkable feat by completing a 3-0 series victory in the One Day International (ODI) matches against South Africa, winning the final contest by 36 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. In a rain-affected match at the Wanderers, Pakistan posted a total of 308-9 in 47 overs, thanks to a stellar performance by opener Saim Ayub, who scored 101 runs off 94 balls. Despite South Africa’s efforts, they were bowled out for 271 in 42 overs while chasing a target of 308.
Batting first after losing the coin toss, Pakistan faced an early challenge, losing Abdullah Shafique for just one run. However, Saim Ayub’s exceptional innings laid the foundation for growth, as he formed significant partnerships of 114 runs for the second wicket with Babar Azam, who scored 52 runs, and another 93 runs with captain Mohammad Rizwan, contributing 53 runs. Ayub’s innings, which included two sixes and thirteen fours, was cut short when he was caught behind off the bowling of debutant Corbin Bosch. Middle-order batsman Salman Agha also added valuable runs, scoring 48 runs off just 33 balls. Kagiso Rabada was the pick of the South African bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 56 runs.
In response, South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen emerged as the highest scorer, making 81 runs in 43 deliveries, while Corbin Bosch remained not out at 40. Pakistan’s bowlers delivered a commendable performance, with spinner Sufiyan Muqeem leading the attack with impressive figures of 4-52 from 8 overs. Pakistan had already clinched the ODI series with victories in the first two matches, winning the opener by three wickets and the second ODI by 81 runs.
Notably, the South African team had previously triumphed in the three-match Twenty20 series, taking it 2-0. Pakistan is now set to face South Africa in a two-test series starting Thursday at Centurion, and this latest ODI series victory serves as a significant boost for Pakistan as they prepare to host the Champions Trophy in February, marking their fifth consecutive bilateral ODI series win.
The One Day International (ODI) cricket series between Pakistan and South Africa marked an important moment for both teams. This series consisted of three ODIs, with Pakistan aiming to strengthen their position in international cricket. The series highlights not only the competitive nature of this cricketing rivalry but also Pakistan’s resurgence in the format after their recent success in limited-overs cricket. Coming into the series on the back of a loss in the T20 format to South Africa, Pakistan had all to play for. The outcome of this ODI series enhances Pakistan’s confidence as they look ahead to the Champions Trophy, which they are set to host soon.
In summary, Pakistan’s successful 3-0 sweep against South Africa in the ODI series underscores their strength in one-day cricket. Saim Ayub’s stellar batting and strong bowling performances were pivotal in achieving this victory. Despite South Africa’s previous success in the T20 series, Pakistan’s ODI triumph signifies their preparedness for future challenges, including the forthcoming Champions Trophy. The series not only reflects individual talent but also team resilience, setting a promising stage for Pakistan cricket moving forward.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
