Saim Ayub shines as Pakistan complete dominant series whitewash in South Africa

South Africa suffered their first-ever bilateral ODI series whitewash at home after a rain-affected loss to Pakistan at the Wanderers. Pakistan triumphed by 36 runs, thanks to standout performances from Saim Ayub and debutant wrist-spinner Sufiyan Muqeem. Ayub smashed his second century of the series while Muqeem picked up 4 for 52, further exposing South Africa's struggles against spin.  

This defeat marks a challenging year for South Africa, having won only one of their three ODI series in 2024, including a series loss to Afghanistan. Under coach Rob Walter, appointed in February 2023, South Africa has now won just two out of six ODI series. Conversely, Pakistan achieved their fifth consecutive bilateral series victory, building on wins against New Zealand, Afghanistan, Australia, and Zimbabwe.

Saim Ayub, in exceptional form throughout the series, delivered yet another remarkable performance. After scores of 98 not out in Centurion and 109 in Paarl, he anchored Pakistan's innings at the Wanderers with a fluent 101 off 94 balls. He formed crucial partnerships with Babar Azam (114 runs for the second wicket) and Mohammad Rizwan (93 runs for the third wicket), setting a strong platform for Pakistan.  

Babar contributed a measured 52, while Rizwan added a brisk 53 off 52 deliveries. Middle-order contributions from Salman Agha and Tayyab Tahir, who shared a rapid 74-run stand, propelled Pakistan to 308 in their rain-adjusted 47 overs. Pakistan's innings was characterized by their now-familiar strategy of cautious starts followed by aggressive finishes.

Set a revised target of 308 due to rain interruptions, South Africa's chase began positively but soon faltered. Temba Bavuma’s struggles continued as he fell to Naseem Shah for 8. Tony de Zorzi looked promising but was undone by Shaheen Afridi's short-pitched bowling. Aiden Markram (19) and Rassie van der Dussen (35) failed to capitalize, leaving the middle order under pressure.  

Heinrich Klaasen, the standout batter for South Africa in the series, fought valiantly. His explosive 81 off 43 balls, laced with 12 fours and 2 sixes, kept the hosts in the hunt. Klaasen ended the series as the leading run-scorer, averaging an impressive 88. Despite his efforts, he lacked support, with debutant Corbin Bosch's unbeaten 40 being the only other significant contribution.

South Africa’s lower order, led by Bosch, attempted to stage a late comeback with useful stands, but Muqeem’s brilliance sealed their fate. He dismissed Rabada and Maphaka in consecutive deliveries, wrapping up the innings for 271 in 42 overs.

Pakistan’s bowlers executed their plans effectively. Muqeem’s 4 for 52 showcased his ability to trouble South Africa’s batters with variations. Naseem Shah and Mohammad Hasnain supported well, while Ayub chipped in with a crucial wicket.  

For South Africa, Bjorn Fortuin was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2 for 56. Kagiso Rabada showed his class in the death overs, finishing with 3 for 56, but the rest of the attack, including debutant Bosch and Kwena Maphaka, proved costly.

The loss leaves South Africa with many questions as they prepare for the Champions Trophy. Key issues, including top-order consistency and spin vulnerability, will need addressing. Meanwhile, Pakistan's dominant performance underscores their growing confidence as a formidable ODI side.  

This series marks another high point in Pakistan’s ODI resurgence, with Saim Ayub emerging as a potential star and the team demonstrating both depth and adaptability. South Africa must regroup quickly to rediscover their form ahead of crucial fixtures in the months to come.

Teams

South Africa Playing XI: Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Bjorn Fortuin, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka

Pakistan Playing XI: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk), Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Sufiyan Muqeem