Pakistan Achieves Historic Sweep Over South Africa In ODI Series
Pakistan made cricket history on Sunday, 22nd December when they became the first team to completely defeat South Africa in a bilateral ODI series played in South Africa. The exciting 36-run triumph (DLS method) in the third ODI in Johannesburg represented the culmination of this momentous feat.
The series consisted of outstanding performances, with newcomer Muqeem, scintillating with the ball and Ayub displaying genius with the bat. The tone for Pakistan’s preparation for hosting the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 was set by these outstanding efforts.
Moments of the Match
Despite weather interruptions reducing the game to 47 overs per side, the third ODI offered edge-of-the-seat action.
Pakistan Innings:
- In the opening over, Rabada got rid of Shafique for a golden duck for Pakistan.
- Saim Ayub played the anchor role, forging critical partnerships:
- 114 runs with Babar Azam (52 off 71 balls) for the second wicket.
- 93 runs with Mohammad Rizwan (53 off 52 balls) for the third wicket.
- With late bursts from Tahir (28 off 24 balls) and Agha (48 off 33 balls), Pakistan reached a respectable 308/9.
- With final statistics of 3/56, Rabada was South Africa’s most impressive bowler.
South Africa Innings:
- With a scorching 81 off 43 balls, Klaasen dominated the hosts’ attack and kept them in the hunt.
- But South Africa’s chase was stopped at 271 in 42 overs by Pakistan’s bowlers, who were headed by debutant Muqeem (4/52) and Shah (2/63).
Key Performances Across the Series
Saim Ayub – The Rising Star
The 22-year-old opener emerged as the standout performer of the series:
- First ODI: With a century (109 runs), you set the tone for the series victory.
- Third ODI: He confirmed his class with another brilliant century (101 off 94 balls).
- His collaborations with more seasoned players like Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam showed his flexibility and maturity.
Sufiyan Muqeem – The Game Changer
Making his debut in the series, Muqeem proved pivotal with the ball:
- His spell of 4/52 in the final match dismantled South Africa’s batting lineup.
- Across the series, his breakthroughs at crucial moments disrupted the hosts’ momentum.
Heinrich Klaasen – South Africa’s Lone Warrior
For South Africa, Klaasen’s explosive batting was a silver lining in an otherwise forgettable series:
- His 81 off 43 balls in the third ODI showcased his power-hitting prowess.
- Despite his valiant efforts, South Africa couldn’t avoid the historic sweep.
Series Recap
1st ODI:
- Result: Pakistan won by 3 wickets.
- Highlights: Saim Ayub’s century and Naseem Shah’s disciplined bowling led Pakistan to a nail-biting victory.
2nd ODI:
- Result: Pakistan won by 81 runs.
- Highlights: A comprehensive team effort secured the series win early.
3rd ODI:
- Result: Pakistan won by 36 runs (DLS method).
- Highlights: Saim Ayub’s second century and Muqeem’s stellar bowling sealed the clean sweep.
Statistical Summary
| Player | Match Performance | Series Totals |
|---|---|---|
| Saim Ayub | 101 (94), partnerships | 2 centuries, key stands |
| Mohammad Rizwan | 53 (52), steady captaincy | 150+ runs in 3 matches |
| Sufiyan Muqeem | 4/52 (8 overs, 3rd ODI) | Key wickets throughout |
| Heinrich Klaasen | 81 (43), aggressive batting | Best batsman for South Africa |
Key Takeaways
- Historic Achievement – Pakistan became the first team to clean-sweep South Africa in a bilateral ODI series on their home soil.
- Resilient Teamwork – Saim Ayub’s consistency, Sufiyan Muqeem’s impactful debut, and collective contributions from experienced players underscored Pakistan’s dominance.
- Preparation for Champions Trophy – This series victory boosts Pakistan’s confidence as they prepare to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Mohammad Rizwan expressed his pride in the team’s performance, stating:
“Always a proud moment. The nation expects such things from us. We are happy. The whole team gave effort. The second ODI, everyone performed. That was a perfect team game.”
He also acknowledged the challenges of playing away from home and emphasized trust within the squad, adding:
“It is not easy playing away from your country. The guys had trust in each other.”
Conclusion
An important turning point in Pakistan’s cricket career was their historical 3-0 victory over South Africa in the ODI series. Alongside significant debuts like Muqeem’s, the series featured the emergence of up-and-coming talent like Ayub. In addition to raising Pakistan’s reputation in international cricket, this team effort lays a strong foundation for them as they prepare for upcoming difficulties.
Pakistan has made a powerful statement to the cricket community with this epic win: they are a powerful team.
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