Pakistan Clinches Series with Dominant Win Over South Africa
Pakistan continued their winning momentum with a stunning seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the third and final ODI at Faisalabad. Abrar Ahmed’s magical spell of 4 for 27 dismantled South Africa’s middle order, while young Saim Ayub’s unbeaten 77 guided Pakistan home with ease. This victory not only sealed the series 2-1 but also marked Pakistan’s third consecutive ODI series win over South Africa — a record that highlights their dominance in recent years.
The game was a mix of controlled bowling, disciplined fielding, and smart batting. Pakistan showcased how balance and planning can outclass even the most aggressive opponents. The atmosphere in Faisalabad was electric, with fans celebrating yet another memorable moment in Pakistan’s ODI history.
Match Overview: Pakistan vs South Africa, 3rd ODI
The match began with South Africa opting to bat first on a pitch that looked slow and low. Their decision seemed right initially as openers Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius added a solid 72-run partnership. But what followed was a complete turnaround. Abrar Ahmed’s spin and deception proved too good for the visitors. South Africa was bowled out for just 143 runs in 37.5 overs.
In reply, Pakistan chased the modest target effortlessly, reaching 144 for 3 in only 25.2 overs. Saim Ayub’s explosive 77 off 70 balls and Mohammad Rizwan’s calm, unbeaten 32 ensured there were no hiccups in the chase. The win was comprehensive, underlining Pakistan’s strength in both departments.
The Faisalabad Pitch: A Challenge for Both Teams
The Faisalabad surface was a bowler’s paradise early on, with variable bounce and slow pace making shot-making difficult. It wasn’t the kind of pitch where one could just hit through the line. Batsmen had to adjust, play late, and rely on timing rather than brute power.
Pakistan’s decision to open the bowling with Saim Ayub alongside Shaheen Afridi added a surprise factor. The early overs were tight, with just ten runs conceded in the first four overs. South Africa looked cautious but disciplined. However, as soon as Abrar came into the attack, the story changed completely.
South Africa’s Promising Start Led by De Kock and Pretorius
De Kock and Pretorius gave South Africa the kind of start any team would dream of in an away fixture. Their communication was sharp, and their stroke play precise. De Kock, in particular, was fluent against pace, punishing anything full or wide. Pretorius complemented him perfectly, using his feet against spinners and rotating strike efficiently.
The pair’s 72-run partnership set a solid foundation. But cricket, as always, is a game of moments. Once Pretorius fell for 39, caught at long-off trying to take on Agha Salman, the collapse began. South Africa couldn’t recover from the loss of quick wickets, showing once again their struggle against quality spin on subcontinental pitches.
Abrar Ahmed’s Magic Spell Breaks South Africa’s Backbone
Abrar Ahmed’s spell was nothing short of mesmerising. The leg-spinner delivered his career-best figures — 4 wickets for just 27 runs. Every ball seemed to carry a question for the South African batters, who failed to find any answers.
His googly deceived debutant Rubin Hermann completely. Then, Donovan Ferreira and Corbin Bosch fell in quick succession, both bowled by deliveries that turned sharply and kept low. Abrar’s rhythm was perfect, his confidence unshakable. By the time he removed South African captain Matthew Breetzke, the visitors were already reeling.
Abrar’s variations and clever flight made him unplayable on the day. His spell reminded everyone why Pakistan continues to produce world-class spinners who can change games in a few overs.
Shaheen Afridi and Agha Salman Support the Spin Show
While Abrar grabbed the headlines, Shaheen Afridi’s contribution was equally vital. Afridi’s two wickets in two balls at the death wrapped up South Africa’s innings quickly. His slower balls, yorkers, and sharp bouncers kept the batters guessing.
Agha Salman, too, played a crucial role, dismissing Pretorius and Tony de Zorzi in quick succession. His disciplined off-spin and intelligent field placements consistently applied pressure. Together, the bowling unit ensured there was no breathing space for South Africa.
Quinton de Kock’s Milestone: 7000 ODI Runs
Quinton de Kock reached a significant personal milestone during the match — 7000 ODI runs. He became the second-fastest player to achieve this, just behind Hashim Amla. It was a moment of pride for South African cricket, even though it came in a losing cause.
De Kock’s innings of 53 was a mix of patience and flair. He used the sweep and reverse sweep effectively against the spinners. However, one misjudged slog-sweep against Mohammad Nawaz ended his stay. His wicket marked the beginning of South Africa’s downfall, and they never recovered.
South Africa’s Middle-Order Collapse: A Turning Point
The collapse from 106 for 2 to 143 all out was catastrophic. Abrar’s brilliance aside, it was also a failure of temperament and adaptability from South Africa’s middle order. Players like Ferreira and Bosch tried to attack from the start instead of settling down.
Pakistan’s fielders were sharp, and every bowler maintained relentless pressure. The pitch didn’t help either; it gripped and turned, making stroke play a gamble. Once Abrar found his rhythm, wickets tumbled one after another, changing the course of the match completely.
