Explosive Ayub Blitz Secures Pakistan ODI Series Win

FAISALABAD, PAKISTAN—The Green Machine delivered a performance for the ages, securing a decisive Pakistan ODI series win against a struggling South African side. Rookie sensation Saim Ayub unleashed a blistering half-century (77) while spinner Abrar Ahmed carved through the Proteas’ middle order with a match-defining 4-27, powering Pakistan to a dominant victory in the third and final ODI at the Iqbal Stadium on Saturday.

Chasing a modest 144-run target, the home side demonstrated superior batting firepower, cruising to the winning post with seven wickets and a massive 149 balls to spare, completing a comprehensive 3-0 sweep of the series.

Spin Attack Paves Way for Collapse

The foundation for this emphatic Pakistan ODI series win was laid by a ruthless bowling display that dismantled the visitors. Proteas skipper Matthew Breetzke’s decision to bat first backfired spectacularly. Despite a steady start anchored by veteran opener Quinton de Kock, the innings crumbled under the pressure of Pakistan’s spin quartet.

De Kock held firm, crafting an essential 53 off 70 deliveries, well-supported by Lhuan-dre Pretorius (39). The opening stand amassed 72 runs, hinting at a competitive total. However, once Mohammad Nawaz removed the iconic South African keeper in the 25th over, the floodgates opened.

Abrar Ahmed Rips Through Proteas Batting Lineup

This is where the wizardry of Abrar Ahmed took centre stage. Triggering a match-defining collapse, Abrar spun a web around the incoming batters, claiming four crucial scalps for just 27 runs in his 10 overs. South Africa lost their final eight wickets for a mere 37 runs, bundling out for a paltry 143 in just 37.5 overs. The supporting cast—skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Ali Agha, and Mohammad Nawaz—all bagged two wickets apiece, proving the depth and menace of Pakistan’s attack.

Ayub Dominates Run Chase Despite Early Jitters

The chase got off to a rocky start when Nandre Burger rocked the home side, removing opener Fakhar Zaman for a two-ball duck in the very first over. However, the momentary panic was quickly silenced.

Saim Ayub was joined by superstar Babar Azam, and the duo executed a brilliant counter-attack. They stitched together a high-tempo 65-run partnership, stabilizing the innings and shifting momentum back to Pakistan. Even after Babar’s unfortunate run-out (27 off 32), Ayub refused to slow down.

The young opener hammered the Proteas attack, showcasing his aggressive intent with 11 fours and one massive six. He combined with Mohammad Rizwan for another clinical 65-run stand, batting the Proteas completely out of the match.

Ayub’s phenomenal innings concluded when he fell for a spectacular 77 off 70 balls, having put Pakistan within touching distance of glory. Rizwan (32 not out) calmly saw the team home alongside all-rounder Agha, steering Pakistan to a commanding victory and officially sealing the Pakistan ODI series win with authority.

🏆 Match Summary & Man of the Moment

Team	Innings Score	Result	Top Performer (Batting)	Top Performer (Bowling)
South Africa	143 all out (37.5 ov)	Lost	Quinton de Kock (53)	Nandre Burger (1-22)
Pakistan	144/3 (25.1 ov)	Won by 7 wickets	Saim Ayub (77)	Abrar Ahmed (4-27)

Man of the Match: Abrar Ahmed (For his game-changing 4-27).

This commanding performance firmly establishes Pakistan’s dominance in home conditions, wrapping up the ODI rubber with a flawless 3-0 sweep and sending a clear message to the cricketing world.

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Khalid Javed

Khalid Javed is known as Khalid Minhas is editor of Daily Olympic.He is a seasoned journalist and worked with different national and international media outlets.