PAK vs SA: Babar Azam hails Saim Ayub's stellar performance against South Africa

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam heaped praise on young opener Saim Ayub for his match-winning performances in the three-match ODI series against South Africa.  

Saim’s blistering 101-run knock off 94 balls, adorned with 15 boundaries, including two sixes, was instrumental in Pakistan’s commanding victory in the third ODI. The win sealed Pakistan’s historic 3-0 whitewash over South Africa on their home soil.  

This was Saim’s second century of the series, earning him the Player of the Series award for his remarkable tally of 235 runs and two wickets across the matches.  

After the series, Babar Azam took to Instagram to commend Saim, sharing his photo and calling him “Cheetah” as a tribute to the young star’s outstanding efforts.  

In the third ODI, Saim partnered with Babar Azam for a crucial 114-run stand off 133 balls for the second wicket, laying a strong foundation for Pakistan’s total of 308-9. Babar contributed 52 runs off 71 balls, featuring seven boundaries, before being dismissed by Kwena Maphaka.  

Saim then joined forces with skipper Mohammad Rizwan, who scored a brisk 53, to accelerate the innings. Their 93-run partnership, which came off just 75 balls, further solidified Pakistan’s position. After Saim and Rizwan’s departures, Salman Ali Agha’s rapid 48 off 33 balls and a vital 74-run stand with Tayyab Tahir (28) ensured a strong finish.  

In reply, South Africa displayed resilience but were bowled out for 271 in 42 overs, falling short by 36 runs.  

This clean sweep marked a historic moment as Pakistan became the first team ever to whitewash South Africa in an ODI series on their home turf.