Saim Ayub’s brilliant century led Pakistan to a clean sweep over South Africa in their third one-day international at the Wanderers Stadium on Sunday. The 22-year-old left-handed opener blasted 101 off 94 balls, powering Pakistan to a total of 308 for nine, despite a rain-affected match that reduced it to 47 overs per side.
Ayub’s remarkable form continued, marking his second century of the series and third in just five innings. His partnership with Babar Azam (52) and Mohammad Rizwan (53) helped steady the innings after his opening partner, Abdullah Shafique, was dismissed for a third consecutive duck. Ayub’s powerful strokes, including 13 fours and two sixes, set the tone for Pakistan’s total before he was caught behind off debutant Corbin Bosch.
South Africa, chasing an adjusted target of 308, were kept alive by Heinrich Klaasen’s fiery 81 off 43 balls. However, his efforts were not enough as the hosts fell 36 runs short, with Shaheen Shah Afridi’s key dismissal of Klaasen and Ayub’s bowling performance, which included a key wicket of David Miller, sealing the win for Pakistan. Ayub, who also contributed with the ball, finished with impressive figures of 1 for 34 in 10 overs, underlining his all-round contribution in the series.
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