JOHANNESBURG: Pakistan achieved a historic clean sweep in their One-Day International (ODI) series against South Africa, securing a 36-run victory in the third and final match at The Wanderers on Sunday.
This marks the first time South Africa has failed to win a single match in a home ODI series. Previously, their worst performance at home was a 1-5 loss to Australia in 2002. This defeat comes as a major blow for the Proteas, especially with the Champions Trophy just a few months away.
Rain reduced the game to 47 overs per side, with Pakistan setting a formidable target of 308 for nine. Saim Ayub starred with the bat, scoring a stunning 101 off 94 balls — his second century of the series and third in just nine ODIs.
Ayub’s impressive run included 113 not out against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo last month and 109 in the series opener against South Africa in Paarl last week.
Valuable contributions came from Babar Azam, captain Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Agha, who scored 48 off 33 balls. They capitalized on South Africa’s inexperienced bowling attack to build a strong total.
South Africa’s chase, adjusted to 308 via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, faltered as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Heinrich Klaasen was the lone standout for the hosts, scoring his third consecutive half-century in the series. He kept South Africa in contention until being dismissed in the 29th over by Shaheen Shah Afridi, caught at square leg.
The Proteas were bowled out with five overs to spare, leaving debutant Corbin Bosch unbeaten on 40 from 44 balls.
Saim Ayub, in addition to his century, showcased his bowling prowess, taking 1-34 in 10 overs with his off-spin and carrom balls. He claimed the key wicket of David Miller and posted the most economical bowling figures of the match.
The focus now shifts to the two-match Test series starting Thursday in Pretoria. South Africa must win at least one match to secure a spot in next year’s World Test Championship final at Lord’s.
