Pakistan Whitewashes South Africa in Historic ODI Series Sweep
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- December 23, 2024
- 4:57 pm
- 34
- Sports
In a stunning display of dominance, Pakistan whitewashes South Africa in a historic ODI series clean sweep on their home soil. This marks the first time the Proteas have been swept in a bilateral ODI series at home, as Pakistan sealed the final match with a 36-run victory (DLS method) in Johannesburg. The series showcased Pakistan’s growing strength in ODI cricket and highlighted South Africa's struggles ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Saim Ayub’s Star Performance Shines
Saim Ayub was the standout performer of the series, leading Pakistan’s charge with a second century (101) in the final ODI. He was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his exceptional batting display. Ayub’s consistent batting brilliance throughout the series, including partnerships with Babar Azam (52) and Mohammad Rizwan (53), laid the groundwork for Pakistan’s competitive total of 308/9.
Despite early setbacks, including Abdullah Shafique’s third successive duck, Ayub anchored the innings with precision and flair. His performance also included explosive boundaries and a critical 93-run partnership with Rizwan that gave Pakistan the edge.
A Team Effort Seals the Sweep
Pakistan’s bowlers complemented the batting effort with a disciplined display. Debutant wrist-spinner Sufiyan Muqeem claimed an impressive 4/52, dismantling South Africa’s middle and lower order. Naseem Shah’s early breakthroughs and Shaheen Afridi’s pace further stifled the Proteas' chase.
Rain interruptions reduced the match to 47 overs per side, setting South Africa a revised target of 308. Despite Heinrich Klaasen’s valiant 81 and Corbin Bosch’s 40 not out, the hosts fell short, bowled out for 271 in 42 overs.
South Africa’s Struggles Continue
The Proteas faced numerous challenges throughout the series. Heinrich Klaasen was the only consistent performer, scoring half-centuries in all three matches, but lacked support from his teammates. South Africa’s bowlers, including Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, struggled to contain Pakistan’s batsmen in crucial moments.
South Africa’s inability to counter Pakistan’s spin attack, particularly Muqeem’s wrist-spin, exposed a significant weakness in their game. This series loss raises critical questions about their readiness for the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Pakistan’s Unstoppable Momentum
This series sweep marks Pakistan’s fifth consecutive bilateral ODI series win, following victories against New Zealand, Afghanistan, Australia, and Zimbabwe.
- 1st ODI (Paarl): Pakistan chased 240, thanks to Ayub’s 109 and Salman Agha’s unbeaten 82, securing a thrilling three-wicket win.
- 2nd ODI (Newlands): Pakistan posted 329, driven by Rizwan’s 80 and Kamran Ghulam’s quickfire 63. South Africa’s chase faltered as Shaheen Afridi claimed 4/47, giving Pakistan an 81-run win.
- 3rd ODI (Johannesburg): Ayub’s century and Muqeem’s bowling sealed the sweep with a 36-run victory.
Key Takeaways
For Pakistan, the series showcased their depth and ability to execute under pressure, a positive sign ahead of the Champions Trophy. Saim Ayub’s emergence as a reliable top-order batter adds a new dimension to their lineup.
South Africa, on the other hand, faces mounting challenges. With just two wins in six ODI series under coach Rob Walter, they must address batting inconsistencies and bowling discipline if they hope to compete at the highest level.
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