In a thrilling conclusion to the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, Pakistan secured a historic clean sweep over South Africa, winning the final match by 36 runs. Chasing a formidable target of 309, South Africa was bowled out for 271 in 42 overs, handing Pakistan an unassailable series lead.
The rain-affected contest, reduced to 47 overs per side, saw South Africa win the toss and opt to bowl first. Their decision quickly backfired as Pakistan’s top order capitalized on the conditions, setting a challenging total for the hosts.
Young opener Saim Ayub was the star for Pakistan, playing a brilliant knock of 101 runs off 110 balls. His composed yet aggressive batting laid the perfect foundation for the team, with his century being the highlight of the innings. Captain Muhammad Rizwan supported with a solid 65 runs, anchoring the middle order while maintaining the required tempo. Babar Azam, Pakistan’s talismanic batter, contributed a stylish 58 runs, showcasing his impeccable technique and class under pressure.
In the final overs, Salman Ali Agha injected some fireworks into the innings, blasting an explosive 48 runs off just 33 balls. His late surge helped Pakistan surpass the 300-run mark, posting a challenging total of 308/6. Kagiso Rabada, South Africa’s premier bowler, led the charge with three wickets, providing his team with some hope. However, Marco Jansen and Bjorn Fortuin, who claimed two wickets apiece, were unable to stop Pakistan’s relentless assault on the scoreboard.
South Africa’s chase faltered early, and despite a valiant effort from wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen, who scored 81 runs, the target remained out of reach. Klaasen’s knock, though commendable, lacked significant partnerships, as the middle order crumbled under the pressure. Rassie Van Der Dussen (35), Tony De Zorzi (26), and Corbin Bosh (40) made valuable contributions, but it was not enough to mount a serious challenge.
Pakistan’s bowlers were clinical, with Sufiyan Muqeem leading the way, claiming a match-winning four-wicket haul. Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah supported superbly, picking up two wickets each to ensure South Africa’s downfall.
This victory marks a historic achievement for Pakistan, completing a clean sweep of South Africa in the ODI series, leaving the hosts to reflect on missed opportunities as they prepare for the upcoming challenges.