PAK vs SA: Saim Ayub joins elite club featuring Sachin Tendulkar

Saim Ayub’s meteoric rise in ODI cricket continued as the young opener smashed his third century in just nine matches, leading Pakistan to a dominant 308-9 in the rain-affected third ODI against South Africa on December 22 in Johannesburg. His 101 off 94 balls helped Pakistan secure a historic whitewash of South Africa in a bilateral ODI series on their home turf.

Ayub’s century was a masterclass in controlled aggression and elegance. Reaching his half-century in 51 balls, he accelerated his innings with a series of powerful shots, including a memorable six off Marco Jansen. His 100 was brought up in style with a crisp cut shot off Aiden Markram before he was dismissed attempting a scoop shot.

The 22-year-old’s third ODI century further cements his place among cricket’s rising stars, as he has now averaged an impressive 64.37 in his brief career, with three centuries and one half-century to his name.

With this achievement, Ayub becomes one of the few cricketers to score three ODI centuries before turning 23, joining an elite list alongside players like Pakistan’s Salman Butt and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson. Ayub now has his sights set on climbing even further, as the Champions Trophy approaches in February and the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand in March offers him more opportunities.

Players with Most ODI Centuries Before Turning 23: 

Quinton de Kock (South Africa) 8 centuries in 52 matches
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan) 8 centuries in 46 matches
Sachin Tendulkar (India) 8 centuries in 116 matches
Virat Kohli (India) 7 centuries in 69 matches
Babar Azam (Pakistan) 6 centuries in 32 matches
Ahmed Shehzad (Pakistan) 5 centuries in 51 matches
Saim Ayub (Pakistan) 3 centuries in 9 matches

Ayub’s continued form is a significant boost for Pakistan as they prepare for major upcoming tournaments. His consistency and ability to deliver under pressure have already made him a key figure in Pakistan’s batting lineup.