Pakistan’s rising cricket sensation, Saim Ayub, delivered another stellar performance, smashing a brilliant 101 off 94 balls to lead Pakistan to a series-clinching victory against South Africa in the third one-day international at the Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg, on December 22, 2024.
Ayub’s dazzling century, his second in the series and third in five innings, powered Pakistan to a formidable total of 308 for nine in a rain-affected match reduced to 47 overs. The hosts, chasing a revised target of 308, fell short by 36 runs despite Heinrich Klaasen’s blistering 81 off 43 balls.
Ayub’s Remarkable Run
The 22-year-old opener continued his remarkable form, having earlier scored 113 not out against Zimbabwe and 109 in the series opener against South Africa. Adding to his growing reputation, Ayub also scored an unbeaten 98 in the second Twenty20 international against South Africa earlier this month.
Named Player of the Match and Player of the Series, Ayub humbly credited his teammates and senior players for their support. “It’s important because we won, but it is for the whole team, not just me,” he said.
Key Contributions
Despite a shaky start with Abdullah Shafique being dismissed for a third consecutive duck, Ayub anchored the innings with partnerships of 114 runs with Babar Azam (52) and 93 runs with captain Mohammad Rizwan (53). Ayub’s stylish knock featured 13 fours and two sixes before he was dismissed by debutant Corbin Bosch.
Pakistan’s total was bolstered by a solid contribution from Salman Agha, who scored 48. Kagiso Rabada led South Africa’s bowling attack with figures of 3-56.
South Africa’s Fightback
South Africa’s chase was powered by Klaasen, who kept them in the hunt with a counter-attacking innings. However, his dismissal to Shaheen Shah Afridi in the 29th over, caught at square leg, proved pivotal as South Africa were bowled out for 271 in 42 overs.
Debutant Corbin Bosch, son of the late Tertius Bosch, impressed with 40 not out but lacked support from the middle order.
All-Round Show by Ayub
In addition to his century, Ayub showcased his bowling skills, delivering 10 economical overs of off-spin and carrom balls, taking 1-34. His crucial wicket of David Miller further highlighted his impact on the match.
Series in Review
The victory sealed a 3-0 series whitewash for Pakistan, with Ayub emerging as the standout performer throughout.
Brief Scores:
- Pakistan: 308-9 in 47 overs (Saim Ayub 101, Mohammad Rizwan 53, Babar Azam 52, Salman Agha 48; K. Rabada 3-56)
- South Africa: 271 in 42 overs (H. Klaasen 81, C. Bosch 40 not out; S. Afridi 2-50)
Result: Pakistan won by 36 runs (DLS method).
Series: Pakistan won 3-0.
