Pakistan Scripts History with a Dominant ODI Series Clean Sweep Over South Africa

Saim Ayub’s sublime century and Sufiyan Muqeem’s stellar bowling display capped a historic performance for Pakistan, handing South Africa their first-ever clean sweep defeat in a men’s ODI series at home. The 36-run victory (DLS Method) in Johannesburg on Sunday not only sealed the series 3-0 but also bolstered Pakistan’s confidence ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Ayub’s Brilliance and Team Effort Shine

Put into bat, Pakistan overcame a rocky start when opener Abdullah Shafique fell for a golden duck. Saim Ayub (101) and Babar Azam (52) stabilized the innings with a commanding 115-run partnership. After Babar’s departure, Mohammad Rizwan (53 off 52) formed another vital 93-run stand with Ayub.

Late contributions from Salman Agha (31) and Tayyab Tahir (24) pushed Pakistan to a competitive 308/9.

In reply, South Africa raced to 24/0 in just three overs but quickly faltered as Naseem Shah struck early, dismissing Temba Bavuma. Sufiyan Muqeem (4/52) dismantled the Proteas’ middle and lower order, claiming key wickets including Aiden Markram (38) and Marco Jansen (26). The hosts were bowled out for 247 in 42 overs, securing Pakistan’s victory.

The series sweep marks a significant achievement for Pakistan cricket and sets the tone for their preparations for the Champions Trophy.

Key Takeaways

• Saim Ayub emerged as the star of the series, scoring back-to-back centuries and showcasing his versatility with the ball.
• The bowling unit, led by Shaheen Afridi, Salman Agha, and Sufiyan Muqeem, consistently dismantled South Africa’s lineup.
• Pakistan’s ability to recover from early setbacks and post strong totals highlights their depth and resilience.

Series Highlights

1st ODI – Paarl

• South Africa: 239/9 (Heinrich Klaasen 86; Salman Agha 4/32)
• Pakistan: 240/7 in 49.3 overs (Saim Ayub 109, Salman Agha 82*)
• Result: Pakistan won by three wickets
• Player of the Match: Saim Ayub

2nd ODI – Newlands

• Pakistan: 329/7 (Mohammad Rizwan 80, Babar Azam 73, Kamran Ghulam 63*)
• South Africa: 248 all out in 43.1 overs (Heinrich Klaasen 97; Shaheen Afridi 4/47)
• Result: Pakistan won by 81 runs
• Player of the Match: Shaheen Afridi

3rd ODI – Johannesburg

• Pakistan: 308/9 (Saim Ayub 101, Mohammad Rizwan 53; Corbin Bosch 3/45)
• South Africa: 247 all out in 42 overs (Aiden Markram 38; Sufiyan Muqeem 4/52)
• Result: Pakistan won by 36 runs (DLS Method)
• Player of the Match: Saim Ayub
• Player of the Series: Saim Ayub