In a remarkable display of form, Pakistan’s rising star Saim Ayub powered his team to a comprehensive series victory over South Africa in the third One-Day International (ODI) at the Wanderers Stadium. The 22-year-old left-handed opener smashed a scintillating 101 off 94 balls, marking his second century of the series and his third in five innings.
Pakistan posted a competitive total of 308 for nine in a rain-affected match reduced to 47 overs per side. Despite a spirited effort by South Africa, led by Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive 81 off 43 balls, the hosts fell short by 36 runs, managing only 271 in 42 overs.
Ayub’s performance places him in elite company as one of the few overseas batters to score multiple ODI centuries in South Africa, joining the ranks of Virat Kohli, David Warner, Fakhar Zaman, and Joe Root. Notably, only Kevin Pietersen and Kohli have scored three centuries on South African soil.
Beyond ODIs, Ayub’s brilliance extends to T20 cricket, highlighted by his unbeaten 98 against South Africa in Centurion earlier this series. His consistency has been pivotal in Pakistan’s dominant run, with Ayub deservedly clinching both the Man of the Match and Man of the Series honors.
Also read: Pakistan Becomes Only Asian Team To Win Three ODI Series In South Africa
With this emphatic clean sweep, Pakistan reaffirms its ODI prowess, and Saim Ayub cements his status as a key figure in the team’s future successes. His performances signal the emergence of a formidable talent in international cricket.
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