Pakistan outplay South Africa to take series 2-1 after a dominant seven-wicket win in the final ODI at Faisalabad. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed’s sensational 4 for 27 dismantled the visitors before Saim Ayub’s fluent 77 not out sealed an emphatic victory.
Abrar Ahmed Spins a Web Around South Africa
Batting first on a sluggish surface, South Africa started brightly through Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius. The pair added 72 runs for the opening wicket, looking set for a solid total. However, Abrar Ahmed turned the game around with a stunning spell of spin.
The mystery spinner removed three batters in just two overs, derailing South Africa’s innings. Debutant Rubin Hermann and Donovan Ferreira failed to pick his variations, while Corbin Bosch fell first ball. With little support from the lower order, South Africa crumbled to 143 all out in 37.5 overs.
De Kock top-scored with 53 and became the second-fastest player to reach 7000 ODI runs, behind Hashim Amla. But once he was trapped lbw by Mohammad Nawaz, Pakistan tightened the screws. Shaheen Afridi and Salman Agha also struck twice each to maintain relentless pressure.
Saim Ayub’s Brilliance Leads Pakistan’s Chase
Chasing a modest target, Pakistan started cautiously as Nandre Burger removed Fakhar Zaman for a duck. Both Saim Ayub and Babar Azam were patient initially, playing out 14 balls before the first run arrived.
Once settled, Ayub unleashed a flurry of boundaries. A beautiful drive through covers off Burger broke the shackles, and from there, Pakistan’s chase gathered momentum. He reached his half-century off just 39 balls, hitting cleanly and confidently.
Babar was run out for 27 while pushing for a third run, but the momentum remained with Pakistan. Ayub, alongside Mohammad Rizwan’s composed 32*, guided the team to victory with 24.5 overs to spare.
Pakistan Dominate for Third Straight Series Win
This win marked Pakistan’s third consecutive ODI series victory over South Africa, reaffirming their dominance in the format. Their bowlers set the tone early, and Ayub’s fearless approach ensured a swift finish.
With Abrar’s spin magic and Ayub’s aggressive batting, Pakistan outplay South Africa to take series in commanding fashion — a result that will boost their confidence ahead of future international assignments.
