Pakistan Created history by winning the series 2-1 at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad on Saturday (8 November) South Africa After a comprehensive seven-wicket win in the third ODI. The win marked Pakistan’s first ODI series win against the Proteas on home soil, a result of an impressive all-round performance by the hosts.
South Africa collapse after strong start
Winning the toss and electing to bat first, South Africa got off to a great start with an impressive 72-run partnership between Quinton de Kock and Luan-Dre Pretorius. The pair looked to set a strong platform for a total of over 250 on the spin-friendly surface.
However, once Pakistan introduced their spinners, the momentum changed dramatically. Abrar Ahmed Claiming career-best figures of 4/27, he produced a spell that demolished South Africa’s middle order. His sharp turn, flight and accuracy proved too much for the visiting batsmen, who struggled to understand his variations.
Increasing the pressure, Salman Agha provided timely breakthroughs, removing key players from the middle order and beginning the collapse. Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi finally delivered the fatal blow by taking two wickets in two balls and taking 2/18.
Contributions from Mohammad Nawaz and Salman Agha ensured that South Africa’s innings could never recover. From 106/2, the visitors lost eight wickets for just 37 runs, and were restricted to a total of 143 in 33.2 overs.
Sam Ayub gave a brilliant performance as Pakistan chased the target comfortably
Chasing 144 runs, Pakistan achieved the target with calmness and confidence. Talented left-handed opening batsman Saim Ayub played a brilliant inning of 77 runs in 70 balls with the help of 11 fours and one six. His brilliant stroke play and ability to rotate the strike neutralized the South African bowlers early on.
Mohammad Rizwan provided steady support by scoring 32 not out. Pakistan won with seven wickets in 25.1 overs.The partnership between the two ensured that there were no late problems and Pakistan took the match and the series by storm.
Captain Shaheen Afridi’s strategic bowling changes and field placements kept the Proteas under constant pressure. Pakistan’s bowlers hunted in pairs, showing collective discipline and aggression to dominate the innings.
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player of the match
Abrar Ahmed was adjudged player of the match for his excellent spin bowling.
“I read the pitch and bowled as per the pitch. I did what Rizwan bhai told me.”Abrar said in the post-match presentation. “Everything I learned, I applied it here today. I keep things simple, don’t overthink.” He added. “If you are doing variations, I need to keep it simple, that’s what I did. I am very happy with this performance and it is good if you perform in a pressure game.”
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