Saim Ayub’s Stellar Form Leads Pakistan to Historic Whitewash in South Africa
Saim Ayub delivered a stunning performance for Pakistan on Sunday, smashing a brilliant century in the third ODI against South Africa in Johannesburg. His knock of 101 runs off 94 balls, featuring 13 fours and two sixes, powered Pakistan to 308/9 in their 47-over innings. The match was reduced to 47 overs per side, with Pakistan defending their target by bowling out South Africa for 271 in 42 overs.
Joining an Elite Club
With this century—his second of the series—Ayub joined an elite list of visiting batters who have scored multiple hundreds in bilateral ODI series in South Africa. The list includes David Warner, Fakhar Zaman, and Joe Root, all of whom lived in South Africa for two centuries. Kevin Pietersen and Virat Kohli lead the pack with three tons each in seven and six matches, respectively.
Pakistan’s Historic Whitewash
This victory marked a historic moment as Pakistan became the first team to whitewash South Africa in an ODI series on their home soil. The visitors dominated the series with wins by three wickets in the first ODI, an 81-run triumph in the second, and a 36-run victory via the DLS method in the final game.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 13, Becomes Youngest Centurion in Youth Cricket History
Post-Match Reactions
Saim Ayub, named Player of the Match and Player of the Series, expressed his delight, stating:
“Very special because we won. This award is for the team. The entire team chipped in. As a young player, I look to learn from every game and every mistake. The seniors help me grow.”Captain Mohammad Rizwan also praised the team, saying:
“Always a proud moment. The nation expects such performances from us, and we’re happy to deliver. The whole team gave its all, especially in the second ODI—it was a perfect team game. It’s not easy playing away from home, but the guys trusted each other. As for Saim Ayub, we trust him and believe in his talent.”
This ODI series victory further underscores Pakistan’s growing strength in international cricket, with Ayub emerging as a star for the future.
