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Pakistan created history at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium on Saturday (November 8) by clinching a 2-1 series victory over South Africa after a comprehensive seven-wicket win in the third ODI. The triumph marks Pakistan’s first-ever ODI series win against the Proteas on home soil, capping off a dominant all-round display from the hosts.
South Africa collapse after strong start
Winning the toss and batting first, South Africa started brightly with an impressive 72-run opening stand between Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius. The pair appeared to be setting up a strong platform for a 250-plus total on a spin-friendly surface.
However, once Pakistan introduced their spinners, the momentum shifted dramatically. Abrar Ahmed produced a magical spell, claiming career-best figures of 4/27, which dismantled South Africa’s middle order. His sharp turn, flight, and accuracy proved too much for the visiting batters, who struggled to read his variations.
Adding to the pressure, Salman Agha provided timely breakthroughs, removing key middle-order players to spark the collapse. Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s captain, delivered the killer blows by taking two wickets in two balls towards the end, finishing with 2/18.
Contributions from Mohammad Nawaz and Salman Agha ensured that South Africa’s innings never recovered. From 106/2, the visitors lost eight wickets for just 37 runs, folding for a below-par total of 143 in 33.2 overs.
Saim Ayub stars as Pakistan chase comfortably
Chasing 144, Pakistan approached the target with calmness and confidence. Saim Ayub, the talented left-handed opener, led the charge with a commanding 77 off 70 balls, laced with 11 fours and a six. His elegant stroke play and ability to rotate the strike neutralized South Africa’s bowlers early on.
Mohammad Rizwan provided steady support with an unbeaten 32, guiding Pakistan home in 25.1 overs with seven wickets in hand. The duo’s partnership ensured there were no late hiccups as Pakistan sealed the match and series emphatically.
Captain Shaheen Afridi’s tactical 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
For his brilliant spin bowling, Abrar Ahmed was adjudged Player of the Match.
“I read the pitch and bowled according to the pitch. Did what Rizwan bhai told me,”said Abrar in the post-match presentation. “Whatever I learned, I applied it here today. I keep things simple, I don’t think much,” he added. “If you are doing variations, then I need to keep it simple, that’s what I did. I’m very happy with this performance and if you perform in a pressure game then it’s good.”
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