Pakistan clinch ODI series against South Africa with 7-wicket win

Pakistan secured a thrilling seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the third One-Day International (ODI) at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, to claim the three-match series 2-1.

The home side chased down a modest 144-run target with precision, led by a fluent 77 from Saim Ayub and 27 from Babar Azam.

South Africa, who won the toss and elected to bat, struggled to build momentum despite strong starts from openers Quinton de Kock (53) and Lhuan-dre Pretorius (39).

The 72-run opening partnership seemed promising, but Pakistan’s spinners turned the tide. Salman Ali Agha struck early, taking two crucial wickets for 18 runs, while Mohammad Nawaz removed De Kock to halt the momentum.

Abrar Ahmed ran through the middle order, claiming four wickets for 27 runs, including key scalps like Rubin Hermann, Donovan Ferreira, and Corbin Bosch, leaving South Africa reeling at 130-8 before the tail was wrapped up by Shaheen Afridi.

Chasing a modest target, Babar Azam’s arrival at the crease brought the Faisalabad crowd to life. The right-hander showcased his trademark elegance, striking five boundaries before being run out for 27.

Saim Ayub then took charge, playing aggressively to reach his 50 off just 39 balls and guiding Pakistan comfortably to victory alongside Mohammad Rizwan, who remained unbeaten on 32.

The win marked a strong finish to the series for Pakistan, who had edged the first ODI by two wickets before South Africa bounced back with an eight-wicket win in the second match.

The performance highlighted Pakistan’s balanced team effort, with the bowlers applying pressure on the opposition and the batsmen responding with composure in the chase. The series victory also comes under the new leadership of Shaheen Shah Afridi, who led the side with tactical acumen throughout.

With this win, Pakistan not only reclaimed the series but also sent a strong message ahead of upcoming international fixtures, demonstrating depth in both batting and bowling departments.