Pakistan’s young stars, Saim Ayub and Sufiyan Muqeem, played key roles in leading the team to a historic 3-0 whitewash over South Africa in the ODI series, with an exciting 36-run win in the third and final match at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
Thanks to a rain interruption, the match was decided by the DLS method, but it was the standout performances from Ayub and Muqeem that powered Pakistan to victory. Ayub’s magnificent century and Muqeem’s match-winning four-wicket debut haul were central to the series triumph. Ayub also earned the Player of the Series award for his remarkable contributions.
The victory came after a strong all-round performance from Pakistan, with Ayub’s brilliant 101, along with valuable contributions from Babar Azam (57) and Mohammad Rizwan (52), guiding the team to a total of 308-9.
Despite a few late wickets falling in quick succession, Pakistan had posted a challenging total for South Africa to chase. Ayub’s century was the highlight of the innings, as he reached his ton off just 91 balls, continuing his incredible form throughout the series. He was eventually dismissed for 101, caught by Heinrich Klaasen off Corbin Bosch’s first-ever international wicket.
In response, South Africa was unable to cope with Pakistan’s bowling attack. Muqeem, on debut, made an immediate impact by dismissing Aiden Markram early.
His four-wicket haul, including crucial dismissals of top-order players like Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Kwena Maphaka, ensured that Pakistan stayed on top.
Despite a spirited 81-run effort from Heinrich Klaasen, the Proteas were eventually bowled out for 271, falling short of the 309-run target.
Pakistan’s bowlers, led by the experienced Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, also played a critical role in the series, helping to restrict South Africa at crucial moments. Muqeem’s performance was a standout, and his four wickets helped ensure the whitewash was completed with a comfortable 36-run victory in the final ODI.
This win was Pakistan’s third ODI series whitewash on South African soil, which adds another feather in their cap. It also serves as a perfect preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy in February.
Ayub’s performance throughout the series, with 235 runs and two wickets, earned him the Player of the Series title, while his efforts in the final ODI, with 101 runs and 1-34 with the ball, earned him the Player of the Match award.
Pakistan’s remarkable victory over South Africa not only strengthens their position as a dominant cricketing force but also provides a huge morale boost ahead of their next big challenge—the Champions Trophy. The win marks an exciting moment in Pakistan’s cricketing journey, with Ayub and Muqeem showing that the future is in good hands.