By Muhammad Zeeshan
JOHANNESBURG: Pakistan cricket team scripted history by securing their first-ever ODI series whitewash against South Africa on their home soil. This monumental achievement was sealed with a commanding 36-run victory in the rain-shortened third and final ODI at the Wanderers Stadium.
Batting first in a 47-over match due to rain, Pakistan set a formidable target of 309 runs, thanks to stellar performances from Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha. The team’s robust batting lineup consistently put South African bowlers under pressure, crafting a total that proved too steep for the hosts.
South Africa, known for their dominance on home turf, faltered against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. The innings began with an early setback for Pakistan as Abdullah Shafique departed without scoring. However, a solid 114-run partnership between Saim Ayub and Babar Azam steadied the innings. Ayub reached his half-century off 54 balls, featuring a six and seven boundaries. Babar contributed a composed 52 off 71 deliveries, including seven fours, before falling to Kwena Maphaka.
Mohammad Rizwan kept the momentum alive with a blazing 62 off just 45 balls, smashing four boundaries and two sixes. Salman Ali Agha provided the finishing touch, scoring a quickfire 40 off 33 balls to push Pakistan’s total past the 300-run mark.
South Africa’s chase started cautiously but soon unraveled as Pakistan’s bowling attack struck early blows. Shaheen Afridi set the tone with key wickets in the powerplay, while Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah dismantled the middle order with crucial breakthroughs.
Despite resistance from some South African batters, the Proteas could only muster 272 runs in their allotted 47 overs. Pakistan’s clinical bowling and sharp fielding ensured a comprehensive 36-run victory.
This historic win earned Pakistan widespread acclaim. Captain Babar Azam expressed gratitude to the team for their hard work, stating, “This victory is a testament to our collective effort and dedication.”
PCB Chairman also lauded the team’s achievement, calling it “a landmark moment in Pakistan cricket history” and “a beacon of hope for the future.” The whitewash against South Africa on their home soil marks a significant milestone for Pakistan cricket, reinforcing their growing prowess in the international arena.
English